Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson - the man who will take on Steven Gerrard's mantle as captain next season - admits the players have to find a way of dealing with the impending departure of such an iconic figure.
Gerrard will leave the club at the end of the season with a new career, most probably in Major League Soccer in the United States, beckoning.
Henderson was appointed vice-captain earlier this season but by the time he takes over the armband he will already be two years older than when Gerrard did so in 2003.
He knows he has huge boots to fill but accepts all the players will have a period of adjustment to make.
"It was a big shock this morning to see that Stevie will be leaving at the end of the season," Henderson told BBC Football Focus.
"It will be difficult because he's such a leader of our group and such a figurehead - he has been for many years.
"It will be a shock to everyone, especially us players. We've just got to try to deal with it as best we can."
Another Anfield icon Kenny Dalglish, whom many now regard as second to Gerrard as the club's all-time best player, paid his own tribute.
"I don't want to single out one goal or one performance," he wrote in the Daily Mirror.
"I just want to say I feel lucky that he was a Liverpool player and that I saw him play."
Gerrard has insisted he will not play for another side who could face his boyhood club, where he has been since the age of eight.
Nevertheless, it did not prevent Southampton manager Ronald Koeman offering him a place next season.
"It is maybe a little bit strange to see Steven Gerrard out of the club Liverpool, and if he likes to continue, he can come (here)," said the Dutchman.
"I am serious - if he likes to continue football in England, he can come.
"For Steven Gerarrd, you have always a position for him.
"He is a fantastic football player, really at the top level in the midfield position and the captain of the club, with an impressive football career."
Source: PA
