Manchester United midfielder Nemanja Matic praised by Liverpool hero Steven Gerrard... who 'couldn't believe' Chelsea chose to sell him

  • Nemanja Matic moved from Chelsea to Manchester United in the summer 
  • He has become a key part of their midfield in a strong start to the season 
  • Ex-Liverpool captain Gerrard said Matic is among most difficult players he faced

Steven Gerrard 'couldn't believe it' when Chelsea sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United last summer as he praised the midfielder. 

Matic moved to Old Trafford from the Premier League champions and has become a key part of their midfield in a strong start to the season for United.

Ex-Liverpool captain Gerrard said Matic was one of the most difficult players he faced - and so was disappointed when the Reds' biggest rivals signed him.

Steven Gerrard 'couldn't believe it' when Chelsea sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United

Steven Gerrard 'couldn't believe it' when Chelsea sold Nemanja Matic to Manchester United

Speaking on BT Sport, Gerrard said: 'He was one of the toughest opponents I played against. He is very leggy, he's good in the air, he competes, he always gets a toe in.


'He can run, he’s very aggressive with the ball and without the ball, he can burst past you with it and he can catch you. 

'I couldn't believe it. I think out of all the Manchester United players I've seen them sign over the last couple of years, he's the one I thought "Oh no, I hope not" so very disappointed about that as a Liverpool fan.’ 

Ex-Liverpool captain Gerrard said Matic was one of the most difficult players he faced

Ex-Liverpool captain Gerrard said Matic was one of the most difficult players he faced

Matic joined United for £40m having helped Antonio Conte's Chelsea win the Premier League title in 2016-17. 

He has since played 90 minutes in every league and Champions League game for Jose Mourinho's side as a defensive midfielder. 

Matic has helped United make a hugely impressive start to the Premier League campaign, with the club second in the table with 20 points from eight games.

Gerrard on Matic: 'He is very leggy, he's good in the air, he competes, he always gets a toe in'

Gerrard on Matic: 'He is very leggy, he's good in the air, he competes, he always gets a toe in'

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