High praise for Liverpool midfielder

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Brazilian ace Rivaldo believes England were easier to dispose of because they didn't have their best player in the side; Liverpool's Steven Gerrard.

"I have played against him a few times for Barcelona and he is the best player in England," said Rivaldo.

"Without him, the English could not be as strong. It was a big blow for them he didn't play and I told my team-mates they could not replace him."