"Brazil is not a defensively-minded team and Gerrard is always going forward and he would play in my team, no doubt," said Pele.
"Gerrard is an excellent player, absolutely world-class. If I was a manager, everywhere I went I would buy Steven Gerrard.
"He is what Brazil needs, because he is always looking forward and has a big heart.
"Two years ago I saw Gerrard play and then I saw him in Tokyo in a game against Sao Paulo. I said then that Gerrard is a great player. To me he is one of the best midfielders in the world. He is an excellent player."