Gerrard relishes thought of taking on Zidane

Liverpool midfielder Steven Gerrard is hoping that his club is drawn against Real Madrid in the second phase of the Champions League so he can face his idol, France's Zinedine Zidane.

After helping Liverpool to a 2-0 victory over Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday -- a result that allowed the English side to finish top of group B -- Gerrard hopes the Merseysiders are pitted against the Spanish champions and tournament favourites in Friday's draw for the second group phase.

The 21-year-old England international told the Sun newspaper: "I can't wait for the draw for the next set of matches. It would be brilliant to come up against Zidane, Luis Figo or even Steve McManaman."

McManaman is a former Liverpool player who helped Madrid win the Champions League in 2000 when he scored a goal in the club's 3-0 final victory over Valencia.

"Playing Real Madrid would be an experience -- and there is no better player to judge yourself against than Zidane. I could learn a lot from him," Gerrard said.

"We (Liverpool) fancy our chances against anyone, home or away, whether its Real Madrid, Barcelona or Roma."

Liverpool defeated both Barcelona and Roma on their way to lifting this year's UEFA Cup in May and qualified for the Champions League for the first time after finishing third in the premier league.

"Most teams would prefer to avoid Real Madrid, but you must face the best sooner or later if you are going to go all the way.

"Last season we wondered what it would be like to play in the Champions League and now we are in it, other teams are beginning to take notice of us," he added.