🚨🔱Rooney played with both men and thinks Gerrard is clear… 👀

Wayne Rooney, one of England’s most iconic footballers, recently commented on the long-standing debate over who is the better player between Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard. Both Gerrard and Lampard are widely regarded as two of the greatest midfielders in Premier League and English football history, and comparisons between them have been a staple of football discussions for years.

Rooney’s insight carries weight because he played with both men during his illustrious career. He played alongside Gerrard in the England national team for over a decade and shared the pitch with Frank Lampard for both England and, briefly, Manchester United. His firsthand experience offers a unique perspective on their qualities as players.

### Rooney’s Argument: Gerrard is Clear

In an interview, Rooney expressed that while both were phenomenal players, he believes Steven Gerrard was a more complete footballer and had a greater influence on games. Here are the key reasons he might favor Gerrard:

#### 1. **Versatility and Influence**

– Gerrard was known for his ability to excel in various roles: box-to-box midfielder, holding midfielder, attacking midfielder, or even as a second striker. His adaptability allowed him to lead Liverpool through different tactical setups over his career.

– Rooney likely appreciated Gerrard’s ability to single-handedly change games, such as his performances in the 2005 Champions League final or the 2006 FA Cup final. Gerrard often rose to the occasion in high-pressure moments.

#### 2. **Leadership**

– Gerrard captained Liverpool for the majority of his career and was synonymous with the club’s fighting spirit. Even when Liverpool wasn’t at its peak, Gerrard’s leadership and determination stood out.

– While Lampard was a leader in his own right, Gerrard’s charisma on the field often gave the impression of being the driving force behind his team.

#### 3. **Athleticism and Dynamism**

– Gerrard combined technical ability with raw athleticism. His long-range passing, thunderous shots, and box-to-box energy made him a more dynamic presence than Lampard, who was primarily known for his goal-scoring and late runs into the box.

#### 4. **Situational Context**

– Rooney might also consider the context in which Gerrard thrived. Gerrard played in Liverpool teams that were not always as strong as Chelsea during Lampard’s peak years. Yet, Gerrard managed to elevate his team, often dragging them to victory through sheer willpower.

#### 5. **Personal Connection**

– It’s worth noting that Rooney had a closer bond with Gerrard during their time in the England squad. Gerrard captained England and was a central figure during their campaigns together, which might influence Rooney’s perspective.

### Why Lampard Fans Disagree

On the other side of the argument, Lampard supporters often highlight his consistency, goal-scoring record, and tactical intelligence. Lampard remains Chelsea’s all-time top scorer, a remarkable achievement for a midfielder. He won more league titles and had greater team success at the domestic level than Gerrard. Some argue that Lampard’s role in Chelsea’s dominance during the Roman Abramovich era speaks volumes about his quality.

### Conclusion

Wayne Rooney siding with Gerrard adds another layer to this iconic debate. His view reflects Gerrard’s unique impact as a talismanic figure who could dominate games on his own. However, this doesn’t diminish Lampard’s incredible career and his role in Chelsea’s golden era. Ultimately, the choice between Gerrard and Lampard often boils down to personal preference, the qualities one values most in a midfielder, and the context in which they excelled.