"We are wonderful friends and the 10 days we spent together last December made us, and our wives, even more tight-knit. Gerard is like a half-brother to me, and that's why it hurts me to see him being criticised.
"I know they have had a dip since November but people need to remember that when Gerard took over, Liverpool were a mid-table club going nowhere.
"Now, they are contenders thanks to his wise management, but also his investment in the future with the Academy. Some people say he has rebuilt the club, but I disagree. I actually think he has built a new Liverpool - one for today and for the future."