Steven Gerrard slams Chelsea for selling Nemanja Matic to Manchester United
Liverpool legend reckons Serbian is one of the toughest defensive midfielders he ever came against in an 18-year career
STEVEN GERRARD feared Manchester United as soon as he saw they were signing Nemanja Matic from Chelsea.
The Liverpool legend hailed the Serbian international, 29, as one of the toughest players he ever played against in his 18-year career.
And he slammed the Blues for sanctioning the £40million switch and strengthening their title rivals.
He told BT Sport: "He's One of the toughest opponents I've played against as a six.
"He's very leggy, he's good in the air, he competes, he always gets a toe in, he can run and match your runs.
"He's very aggressive with the ball and without the ball, he can burst past you with it and he can catch you if you manage to stride past him on the odd occasion.
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"I Couldn't believe it. I think out of all the Manchester United players I've seen the sign over the years he's the one, as a Liverpool fan, I thought 'Oh no. I hope not,' and then it happened."
Fellow pundit Paul Scholes added: "He's just one of them awkward players.
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"Tall lad, long legs - he's very difficult to get past.
"He's had a great start at United. He's been aggressive, he gets to the ball, he tackles. He's done well so far."