ANFIELD legend Kenny Dalglish has told how Gerrard is "not the archetypal footballer".

The former Liverpool striker paid tribute to the current Anfield skipper, in a character reference read out in his defence.

Dalglish described how he had known Gerrard since he joined the club when he was 14, adding: "He is not your archetypal footballer.

"He does not seek publicity, he doesn't move in Hollywood circles, and doesn't base his success on column inches he gets in newspapers.

"In my view, he is very different from how people think of football stars."

The Liverpool hero spoke glowingly of Gerrard, saying he was an “ambassador” for the city, adding: "Steven respects the fact that he is a very talented footballer and acknowledges he is paid very well to do what he loves doing, which is playing football.

"Despite the fame and obvious wealth that comes from Steven's abilities and success, he has never forgotten his roots or where he came from. I believe these values have been instilled in him by his mum and dad, who I have met and are lovely people.

"Steven is a very respectful man and always has been."