by Alex Dunn - created on 20 Feb 2005
Liverpool midfielder Didier Hamann concedes that he would advise Steven Gerrard to leave if the right opportunity arose.
The Anfield favourite has become very much the heartbeat of Anfield but the Merseyside outfit's inability to compete for major silverware has led to inevitable speculation over the player's future.
Gerrard pledged his future to his home town club in the summer, despite an approach from Chelsea, but reports suggest at the close of this season fresh bids will be forthcoming.
Several of Europe's finest are tracking the impressive midfielder and Hamann admits a spell abroad could be of great benefit to Gerrard's development.
''If a player one day has the chance to get some experience in a foreign country and play for a big club, then I would advise anyone to do it,'' Hamann told the Daily Star.
''Steven would be able to play anywhere is Europe. He has the ability, power and strength to do well.
''It worked out well for me because I have learned a lot more than I could have learned had I stayed in Germany.
''It's a big decision for Steve. He is 24. Does he want to go into a foreign country?
''He is the captain and a very important part of the team and the club.
''If somebody comes in and offers to pay whatever, you never know what the club is going to decide.''