Pirlo will face England international in their opening game of the World Cup.
Italy and Juventus midfielder Andrea Pirlo has praised Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard as the pair look ahead to meeting in the World Cup group stages this summer in Brazil.
The 34-year-old is aiming for a third consecutive Serie A title this season, before he will arguably take part in his final major international tournament with the Azzurri before retiring from the national squad.
However, despite question marks over his career when he left former club AC Milan two-and-a-half years ago, the midfield maestro has been able to maintain his playing time and has excelled in his traditional deep-lying midfield role that he has occupied for so many years.
Pirlo believes that Gerrard can have many more years at the top level as he continues to adapt to a similar deeper midfield position with Liverpool this season.
“The intelligent players adapt and Gerrard has the ability to do that. He is an excellent passer of the ball, possesses an intelligent football brain, and has great vision,” he told reporters, according to Sky Sports.
“Gerrard is a top professional, it is very possible he has many years left for Liverpool and England in a new role.”
Italy face England in Manaus in the World Cup on June 14, where Pirlo will be hoping to play an influential role in their progress just as he did at Euro 2012 when the Azzurri progressed after penalties, but were praised for their approach and dominance in terms of possession through the game.
With less than four months until the two clash again, Gerrard will undoubtedly welcome praise from his counterpart, as he also looks to lead Liverpool to domestic success prior to captaining England this summer.
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