Gerrard named Champions League's MVP

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard was named by UEFA yesterday as the Most Valuable Player (MVP) in last season's Champions League.

Gerrard scored the goal that sparked Liverpool's extraordinary fightback from 3-0 down to 3-3 in the final against Milan, which they went on to win on penalties.

His dynamic displays helped drive Liverpool through to the final, while his goal and all-round example in Istanbul were instrumental in the club winning the trophy for the fifth time.

"I'm still in shock, some of the players who have won it in the past, they are unbelievable players," Gerrard said.

"It's a great honour and I'm very lucky to receive it."

Chelsea, beaten by Liverpool in last season's semi-finals, also featured in the awards when Petr Cech was named as the competition's best goalkeeper and John Terry the best defender.

Their midfielder Frank Lampard was edged out in the midfield department by Milan's Kaka.

Adriano of Inter and Andriy Shevchenko of Milan were beaten by World Player of the Year Ronaldinho of Barcelona in the best forward division.

It is the eighth year of the UEFA awards, which were made yesterday ahead of the Champions League group stage draw.