Jose Mourinho's interview after Steven Gerrard's final game vs Chelsea was pure class

After nearly 17 years at Liverpool, Steven Gerrard was approaching his final game at Anfield, but before the big occasion, he had one last outing to Stamford Bridge.

Gerrard has been mocked by Chelsea fans plenty of times after his slip against the London side cost Liverpool a shot at the title. And for the majority of this game, things were no different to usual. Signs were scattered around the crowd, and songs were aimed at the Liverpool midfielder, reminding him of his biggest mistake.

But when Gerrard finally left the pitch, even the Chelsea fans understood that it was the last time they would get the opportunity to see the legendary midfielder live in the flesh.

Despite the rivalry, there was clearly respect for the player amongst the Blues fans, although it usually remained hidden behind the banter.

The fans, players and staff at Stamford Bridge gave the midfielder a standing ovation as he left the pitch, including then-Chelsea manager Mourinho.

After the match, Mourinho was asked about the applause the Liverpool icon received from the Chelsea fanbase.

Mourinho told the interviewer: "I think Stamford Bridge was fantastic because the negative song is the song that shows exactly what the 'dear enemy' concept means.

"In the end, to get an ovation at Stamford Bridge is special for him and shows exactly what I'm saying, we have lots of respect for the top guys."

Mourinho was then asked whether he would miss Gerrard and offered a classy response: "I will miss him yes, I want my league to be always the best league. I want my league to have always the best players, I saw the end of amazing players and I was always hurt by that.

He added: "Steven is leaving, Frank Lampard is leaving, Carragher... Also a fantastic enemy.

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