Raul Meireles is keen to form a midfield partnership with Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Roy Hodgson has admitted he does not yet know where the Portugal international's best position is, having played him largely in the advanced role usually taken by Gerrard.

But Meireles knows he has a long way to go to start emulating the Liverpool captain, whom he holds in the highest regard.

"For a long time, I have said that Gerrard is one of the top three midfielders in the European game," said the 27-year-old.

"Along with Michael Essien of Chelsea and Andres Iniesta of Barcelona, he has been the most difficult opponent I have faced over the years.

"Now I am his team-mate. I think we can combine well together."