Sorry, Kopites. Steven Gerrard is leaving Liverpool
It is the news the Anfield faithful feared would come for some time.
Steven Gerrard is set to quit Liverpool at the end of the season, after almost 17 years at Anfield.
The future of the Reds captain has been the subject of speculation for several months. It is also widely expected that he will continue his career overseas when his contract expires in the close season.
The 34-year-old midfielder has already been linked with a move to MLS franchise LA Galaxy.
His decision has not been formally announced but a Daily Express report says he is poised to go public on his plans later today to avoid speculation over his future becoming a distraction during the rest of the season.
In that same report, clubs from the Middle East will also express interest in Gerrard.
Former Liverpool teammate Jamie Carragher described Gerrard's decision as a "sad day".
Gerrard joined Liverpool as an eight-year-old and has made 695 first-team appearances, scoring 180 goals.
His greatest moment came when he scored in the Champions League final in 2005 and inspired Liverpool to come from 3-0 down at half-time against AC Milan and win the trophy on penalties.
But his hopes of winning the Premier League are likely to remain unfulfilled. Liverpool came up agonisingly short last season and lost out to Manchester City.
Gerrard returned to the starting line up for Thursday’s draw with Leicester after being rested for Monday’s win over Swansea.
But, with performances below his previous high standards for much of this season, the prospect of being a substitute in more matches next season as manager Brendan Rodgers manages his fitness has helped shape his decision to quit Anfield.
Source: AFP
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