The pair have met several times in the Premiership and last week they faced each other at Wembley in the 1-1 draw against Brazil.

Gerrard was voted man of the match on that occasion and Gilberto has nothing but admiration for the Reds captain.

"He is almost the complete player," said the 30-year-old 2002 World Cup winner.

"He goes forward well, defends well, passes the ball and makes it very difficult."

Gilberton also backed Gerrard and Chelsea's Frank Lampard to find a way to play successfully at international level.

Lampard has been the subject of abuse from fans for some distinctly below-par performances for England and sceptics remain unconvinced he can play in the same midfield as Gerrard.

However, Gilberto told the duo to ignore the criticism.

"The important thing is not to absorb the pressure and keep it in your mind," he told BBC Sport.

"You are there on the pitch to be judged by the people, by journalists and by the fans and sometimes for the manager - but if you do your job well and give 100% you will go home and sleep well.

"This is the important thing - not to keep pressure on you.

"But it is not just about them but the whole team, England have some great players."