After failing to agree a new deal at Anfield, the former England captain is set to join LA Galaxy following the conclusion of the current season, ending a 17-year playing career with the Reds.
And defender Skrtel - who is set to return to the Liverpool side along with Gerrard for their FA Cup semi-final with Aston Villa - was full of praise for the midfielder, though he admits it will be difficult to see him leave.
"When I found out he was leaving it was bad news for me," he told reporters at the unveiling of Liverpool's New Balance home kit for the 2015-16 season.
"Obviously he was here for such a long time and when you say Liverpool it's always Steven Gerrard. It will be different next season and Liverpool will never be the same.
"I can say only good things about him. From the first day I came to Liverpool he was here to help me. He gave me a hand every single day with everything I needed. I need to say thanks for that.
"He made his decision and we have to accept that and wish him luck for his next career."
Jordan Henderson has been tipped to take over as Liverpool captain, with his performances this term drawing comparisons with 35-year-old former England skipper Gerrard.
And Skrtel feels there are players currently at the club who can replace the departing skipper, though he concedes it will be difficult for any of them to replace a man he sees as one of the best.
"[It will be] Very, very difficult. In my eyes he is still one of the best players in the world.
"It will be very difficult to replace him but we have to do that. He will be leaving after this season and we have a few players who can replace him. We will try to help them and try to work as a team."
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