"I just love playing with him. Everyone in the squad loves playing with him. He's our best player, our key man. We're a better team with him. He's one of the best players in the world. His movement is great. As a midfielder, you can always find him in space and he's great to link with,"said the Liverpool skipper.
"He's so enthusiastic, he works hard for the team. He sets an example up there. One of the things that makes him such a top player is that as well as his ability, he works hard. That's the best combination.
"I don't think I have to speak about Wayne for you to know how important he is to this team.
"You've heard the supporters yelling for him and you've heard all the players go on record and say we're desperate to get him back. He was desperate to get out there today. Before the game, he was kicking a ball around the dressing room. He couldn't wait.
"We have nearly got him fit now so we just need to be patient.
"He's been frustrated by the injury. He wanted to start the World Cup but has had to be patient and is working incredibly hard to find that 100 per cent fitness. It's great to see him back."