Liverpool hero John Aldridge says Steven Gerrard looked nervous during Aston Villa's defeat at Anfield.
He wrote for the Sunday World: "Gerrard's return to Anfield was always a sideshow to what really mattered at Anfield yesterday - and Liverpool just about managed to get over the line.
"I have a pretty good idea how Liverpool legend Stevie felt as he stood in the opposition dug-out as Aston Villa manager because I led Tranmere into a game against my former club many years ago.
"It is a strange sensation, but all you can do is be professional, try and do what is best for your team and I'm sure Stevie and his assistant Gary McAllister, another former Red, had that mindset.
"Stevie will forever be a Liverpool great and he might be the best player who has ever played for the club.
"I know that's controversial as Kenny Dalglish holds such a special place in the hearts of Liverpool fans, but Stevie carried Liverpool teams time and again during his stint at the club and that singles him out as a special player for me.
"Kenny added the icing on the cake to a sensational Liverpool team during his time at the club, but Gerrard lifted some very average teams to great heights, with his performance in the 2005 Champions League final cementing his iconic status.
"Stevie got a great reception on his return to Anfield yesterday and rightly so, with everyone who gave him a cheer wishing him all the best... once this game is out of the way.
"From my position high in the stands, Stevie looked nervous as he stood on the touchline at Anfield as the opposition manager for the first time.
"He was jumping up and down and touching his toes as if he was getting ready to play and it must have been strange for him."
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!