Claudio Marchisio credits Juventus team-mate Alessandro Del Piero and Liverpool's Steven Gerrard as his idols

Juventus midfielder Claudio Marchisio has credited his teammate Alessandro Del Piero and Liverpool's Steven Gerrard as his idols.

The 25-year-old has been in good form for his club this season, scoring five goals, and speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport the Italy international lauded his captain as his childhood hero.

"Del Piero has always been my idol. A legend. In my own position, I was crazy about [Steven] Gerrard.

"I remember in the Champions League final comeback by Liverpool against AC Milan, you saw him up front, on the wings, and a moment later he was back, marking the playmaker.

"I have never seen such a complete midfielder."

Marchisio also tipped AC Milan to retain their Serie A crown, and stated that his aim for the season was to help his club back into the Champions League.

"We're thinking about it one game at a time and trying to stay ahead of everyone for as long as possible. I want to get Juventus back into the Champions League.

"I see AC Milan as the title favourites. They have the experience."

Juventus travel to Rome on Saturday as they look to protect their unbeaten record against fellow Scudetto contenders Lazio.

no wonder he is on fire this year...he's been watching Prime Gerrard all summer