Zinedine Zidane Had No Doubts Over Playing Alongside Scholes, Gerrard or Lampard

Zinedine Zidane made his feelings clear on who he wished he played alongside out of Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard.

Scholes, Gerrard and Lampard played in the same Premier League era and lined up alongside one another for England.

They all carved out legendary careers at Manchester United, Liverpool and Chelsea respectively.

Given they played in the same position and time, fans and critics alike have often compared Scholes, Gerrard and Lampard against each other to differing results.

Legends of the game have weighed in on the fierce debate, including the Red Devils icon himself as he gave an incredible answer when he was asked who the better player was between him and Gerrard and Lampard.

Not to mention Zidane, who came up against Scholes, Gerrard and Lampard at different stages of his storied career for club and country.

Paul Scholes, Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard played in the same England team. Image: Getty

Zidane rates Gerrard ahead Scholes and Lampard, claiming the ex-Liverpool skipper was the 'best in the world' at his peak

"I have said in the past that at his peak he [Steven Gerrard] was the best in the world," he explained.

"I think it was the summer of 2004 I was having a conversation with Florentino (Perez), and I told him I wanted him to partner me in midfield for [Real] Madrid."

Zinedine Zidane and Steven Gerrard during a game between France and England at Euro 2004. Image: Getty

Zidane even claimed that Real made not one but two attempts to sign Gerrard when he was plying his trade at Anfield.

He revealed: “I know the club tried twice, but he wouldn't leave Liverpool. Not many players turn down Real Madrid but I think that tells you a lot about the loyalty of the man.

“It is incredible he has never won a league title, but he has had success with Liverpool."

In a separate interview for an LFCTV documentary, Zidane hailed Gerrard, saying he 'would have really liked to have played alongside him' - describing him as a player 'that I really thought a lot of'.

"Why did I like him so much? Perhaps there was something about him that reminded me a little bit of myself," he said.

"He made a lot of noise out there on the field but was quiet off it, meaning that he was someone down to earth and grounded away from the game who just said what needed to be said.

"He preferred to do his talking on the field, using his voice, his combative spirit and above all his ability on the ball that could make the difference in a game."