Steven Gerrard told Liverpool's new American owners to keep faith with manager Rafael Benitez because he views the Spaniard as "one of the great geniuses of the modern game".

Gerrard and fellow Scouser Jamie Carragher pulled no punches at their first meeting with George Gillett and Tom Hicks - but presented the pair with a signed shirt each.

Gillett said: "They spoke extremely warmly about Rafa and made us aware that they feel this man is truly one of the great geniuses in the recent history of the sport.

"Secondly, they wanted to talk about players and to encourage us to support Rick and Rafa's efforts in building the team.

"They were also clear with their views on the stadium. They made us aware the sound, the energy and the passion that Anfield provides needs to be incorporated into the design of the new stadium."

The £470million takeover means work is now expected to start on the new 60,000-seater Stanley Park stadium within the next two months, with the new owners also considering selling the naming rights on the ground.

Gillett and Hicks made clear, however, that there was no chance of sharing the stadium with Everton.

Labels: Carragher, Gerrard, Liverpool FC