Hamann returns to Anfield with Manchester City this afternoon and ahead of the game, his replacement as Liverpool's holding midfielder has praised the Kaiser.
"He is a legend here and a fantastic player," Mascherano told the club's official website.
"I am always looking to improve and try to learn from such a great player all the time. I know he was successful here and although I don't know him personally, I know he is a great player and a good guy."
