Departing Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard could play for any national team in the world, according to former Reds teammate Xabi Alonso.

The long-serving skipper, who marked his final Anfield appearance with a 3-1 defeat to Crystal Palace on Saturday, will call time on a decorated career with the Reds next week away to Stoke City.

Alonso, discussing his former colleague's career highlights, told BBC Sport: "His goal against Olympiacos gave us the chance to get through the knockout stage and finally win the Champions League.

"I remember the goal in the FA Cup final when he scored an unbelievable strike. It is difficult to pick one. He could play in any national team in the world. His name and the Liverpool name will always be linked."

Alonso turned out for Liverpool between 2004 and 2009.