Kop hero Gary Gillespie has hailed the impact of Daniel Agger as the young Dane prepares to make his 50th Liverpool appearance.One of the best unknown signings since a certain John Arne Riise
The former Reds centre-back believes Agger – who'll reach his half century if selected against Sunderland on Saturday - has the potential to one day be held in the same esteem as the likes of Alan Hansen, Tommy Smith and Emlyn Hughes.
"To have played 50 times for Liverpool by the age of 22 shows the quality he has," said Gillespie, who amassed 212 appearances for the club between 1984 and 1991.
"He has the potential to be up there with the likes of Hansen and Smith – and that's an accolade of the highest order.
"The thing that impresses me most about him is his ability on the ball. He has the composure to pick out a pass or bring the ball forward. I don't see that in a lot of centre-backs these days.
"When he first arrived he looked a bit lightweight – it reminded me of when I first broke into the team. But he's filled out and worked on his strength. He also reads the game very well for his age and can cover ground quickly.
"The thing is, centre-back is a position where you only get better with age, so there's a lot more to come from him yet."
Gillespie admits he's been surprised at how quickly Agger has established himself in the first team since moving from Brondby 18 months ago.
"Sami Hyypia has been a legend for this club, but Agger has come in and done fantastic. I still think Sami has a part to play at Liverpool and there's certainly no one better for Agger to learn from."