May 05, 2013 11:39 PM EDT
Liverpool vs Everton: Gerrard Admits Carragher Will Be Difficult to Replace as Defender Closes In on Retirement

Steven Gerrard admitted Jamie Carragher would be extremely difficult to replace, after the Liverpool defender put in another solid performance to help his side keep their 15th clean sheet of the season, courtesy a goalless draw with Everton in the English Premier League.

Carragher played in the last Merseyside Derby of his career, with the Liverpool legend set to retire at the end of the season after 16 years of splendid service for the Reds.

"Of course he's going to be missed," Gerrard said. "You saw his display today (Sunday). Since he's been back in the team he's probably been our most consistent player.

"I wouldn't like to be in Brendan Rodgers's position of trying to replace him."

Carragher, who only has two more games to go before he hangs up his boots, was a little disappointed not to come away with a victory at Anfield in his last derby, with the result keeping Everton five points clear of Liverpool.

"Probably Everton will be the happier team," the 35-year-old said. "If you're playing away in a derby and don't lose, you're probably pleased with the result.

"We're slightly disappointed but it was probably a fair result. We'd all have loved to win, the Everton players would have said the same, but it wasn't to be.

"There weren't too many chances at either end, it was a tense derby. Credit to Everton. Coming to Anfield and getting a draw is a very good result."

Carragher said he is convinced Liverpool will be in "safe hands" after his retirement. "Oh, yes," he said. "And when Stevie's gone, it'll still be in safe hands. There'll always be top players at this club who do well.

"We've both enjoyed our time and Stevie's probably got a few years left, but there'll be plenty more players who play for Liverpool."

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers, though, admitted Carragher would be missed at Liverpool.

"Jamie Carragher was immense, he's a real colossal player and he's only got two games left for the club," Rodgers told reporters.

"His influence is superb, on the training field every day and in the changing room. He's so professional.

"You saw him out there at 35 and he was at the top of his game. He was absolutely outstanding -- and having worked with him for so long, I can clearly see why he was one of Europe's top defenders for so many years.

"We'll have to search far and wide to get someone in to be at that level."

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