DIDI HAMANN was today hailed as Liverpool's 'man for the big occasion' by skipper Steven Gerrard following an inspiring performance in Saturday's FA Cup win over Manchester United.
Hamann will activate the one-year extension to his Anfield contract should he make his 22nd appearance of the season against Benfica tomorrow.
Regardless of whether the German keeps his place for the Champions League clash, securing his future at Anfield for an additional 12 months is now a formality.
That's great news for the club, according to Gerrard, who believes the Reds are consistently indebted to the midfield nouse of the 'Kaiser'.
"Didi was brilliant at the weekend, but I think he has been brilliant all season for us," said Gerrard.
"It can be difficult when you're not in the team every week and you're playing bits and piece of games.
"But he is such a clever player, that's why the manager turns to him.
"You know exactly what you're going to get. His experience means if he is not playing for three or four games, when he comes back into the team he knows exactly what to do and always gives you a big performance.
"He was my man-ofthe-match against United and that shows he's a big game player.
"This is someone who has played in the World Cup final, remember, and it's important to have someone of his experience around. Speaking personally, I've learnt an awful lot from him over the years."
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