Steven Gerrard was one of the best midfielders of his generation – so it’s only right that some of the game’s leading lights were quick to pay tribute to his career. Xabi Alonso, who was also part of the Liverpool team that won the Champions League in 2005, was one of the first to tweet his response after Gerrard officially announced his retirement from football. The Legend Forever. pic.twitter.com/0spWLyP1JY — Xabi Alonso (@XabiAlonso) November 24, 2016 And a host of other football stars who either played with or against him also had their say. We started at Liverpool together at 11. He was brilliant then. He went on to be world class. Liverpool's greatest player. Congrats Stevie G. — michael owen (@themichaelowen) November 24, 2016 It's been an honor to play alongside you amigo!! Always an example on and off the pitch!great moments together!THANKS FOR EVERYTHING LEGEND! pic.twitter.com/DjFNMKL38K — Pepe Reina (@PReina25) November 24, 2016 You will be missed my friend #YNWA pic.twitter.com/CZvp3izUFK — Djibril Cisse (@DjibrilCisse) November 24, 2016 Y.N.W.A pic.twitter.com/9GRZOgLjkD — Daniel Agger (@DanielAgger) November 24, 2016 Spot on now he can join me on MNF! https://t.co/047vpSGNKw — Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) November 24, 2016 The best player I have ever played with! Thanks for everything mate Posted on 24/11/16