"Peter has had his critics at this level and he has proved he can score goals at this level and I think he deserves a starting place after that performance," said Gerrard.
"Peter has been working hard on his game all season and he is getting his rewards now. He is so difficult to play against if the service into him is right.
"I know more than most people how hard he has worked and he is getting his rewards now.
"I think it is the perfect partnership him and Michael. As a midfielder it is perfect to play with one striker running long and one coming short.
"If Wayne Rooney is not there, it is always good to have a different option and if Wayne isn't fit we haven't got too much to worry about if Peter is in this form."
