Football
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James McCarthy ideal to replace Gerrard at Liverpool - Dietmar Hamann

Everton midfielder James McCarthy is the perfect replacement for departing Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, according to Dietmar Hamann.

Gerrard, who scored his side's winner in last Saturday's 2-1 Premier League victory over Queens Park Rangers, will end his 17-year Anfield first-team career at the end of the season to join LA Galaxy.

And former Liverpool midfielder Hamann, who played alongside Gerrard in the Reds side who won the Champions League in 2005, thinks McCarthy is the man to come in.

Hamann told the Irish Independent: "I've always been a big fan of [McCarthy]. I think he's done ever so well this season.

"Whether he's a player Liverpool are interested in remains but to be seen but in the centre midfield area... Joe Allen, Jordan Henderson, there are a few players there."

Liverpool have not declared an interest in McCarthy -- and a move would be unlikely in any case for several reasons.

The Republic of Ireland international declared late in April that he was "loving life" at Goodison Park, having joined Everton from Wigan for £13 million in September 2013.

In addition, transfers between Everton and Liverpool are rare because of the intense rivalry between the clubs. No player has made a direct move from Goodison Park to Anfield since Portuguese full-back Abel Xavier in January 2002.

Toffees manager Roberto Martinez has also repeatedly dismissed speculation linking McCarthy with a move away, amid reported interest from Manchester United, Tottenham and Arsenal.

Hamann added: "Somebody has to step up and perform at the highest every single week because obviously that's what will be missing with Steven Gerrard gone."

McCarthy has been troubled by hamstring problems this season but is fully fit again and was inspirational in a 3-0 league victory over Manchester United on April 26, in which he scored.

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