Liverpool draw 0-0 with Aston Villa at Villa Park: Do we play better without Gerrard?

Question

This is the first time so far we can say Liverpool played really well. We showed authority and controlled the game, attacked a lot while Villa did not do much at all.

Do you think our players work harder without Gerrard and become less dependent when he is not playing? It's a bit like how Arsenal play better without Henry. Of course I am not suggesting that we drop Gerrard - it's a shame they don't play like this when he IS playing.

Answer 1

Gerrard is the star of the team.

Answer 2

We made huge progress in this game and I for one am happy. Alonso, Mascherano and Leiva controlled the midfield and looked so comfortable playing the ball around...maybe if we had had that driving force that connects midfield to attack in Gerrard we could have turned the neatness and authority into meaningful attacks.

Overall, a pleasing performance and result...not from the outside when you take into consideration the shots and other stats but in general play it was a huge improvement.