"Liverpool could have spent hundreds of millions on new signings during the summer, but it still wouldn't have changed the identity of their most important player," said the Liverpool legend.
"Steven Gerrard is the main reason why I believe Rafa Benitez's side can compete for the title this season, and he proved it against Aston Villa.
"He's a special talent, and I truly believe there isn't a better central midfielder in the world.
"I'm sure Liverpool will have a better season because Benitez has brought in players who can ensure Gerrard plays in the middle far more.
"He's a great player on the right, a good player on the left, and an effective player everywhere else he's used. But in the centre, he's the best. That's the difference."