"He's s***" - Steven Gerrard was "ruthless" with new Liverpool signing, claims former teammate

Peter Crouch laid bare Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher's ruthless treatment towards new Liverpool signings.

The 6ft7 forward spent three years at Anfield between 2005 and 2008 and netted 42 times in 135 appearances.

During that period, Crouch played alongside club greats Gerrard and Carragher and admitted that behind the scenes the pair could be judgemental of new signings.

‘He’s s***’

Speaking to Diary of a CEO Crouch gave an insight into what life at Liverpool was like behind the scenes.

On the podcast, Crouch said: “Some players like Steven Gerrard - prime example - just a constant, where it looked like there was no enjoyment.

“I'd class myself as an elite sportsman, but I'm talking top, top and that's why they are who they are. (They're) so intense.

“Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher (could be) quite ruthless and quite harsh in their appraisal of some players, so I found myself constantly seeking their approval. Some people didn't understand the level of passion and the standards they had.

“Unfortunately, if you want to play for Liverpool, you have to have a way about you and a certain standard and if you fall below that standard then players like Steven and Jamie would tell you very quickly.”

When asked if Gerrard and Carragher’s scathing treatment would be in front of the rest of the squad, Crouch replied: “Yeah!

“I've seen players be signed and be written off in one training session. You know, £15million players coming in and [Gerrard would say] 'he's s***'.

“You wouldn't get many chances. But then, I've also seen players written off and then come back.”