Anfield legend confirm overnight speculation of Liverpool exit.
Liverpool legend Steven Gerrard has confirmed that he is to leave Anfield at the end of the 2014-15 season when his contract expires, calling his choice to leave the club as “the toughest decision of my life”.
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There was overnight speculation that the captain would announce his decision to leave the side today and the club and Gerrard have confirmed this morning his intention to leave.
#LFC can confirm that Steven Gerrard is to leave the club at the end of the 2014-15 season #LFCicon pic.twitter.com/an6AjmFgvE
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
“This has been the toughest decision of my life and one which both me and my family have agonised over for a good deal of time,” he said.
“I am making the announcement now so that the manager and the team are not distracted by stories or speculation about my future.”
The 34 year old joined the Reds as a nine year old and in a career that has spanned 17 years Gerrard has made 695 appearances, scoring 180 goals and winning 10 trophies.
The skipper is out of contract at from the end of this season and was free to start discussing potential moves with overseas clubs from News Year’s Day, with interested reportedly from the MLS and LA Galaxy.
A special message from Steven Gerrard to #LFC supporters… #LFCicon pic.twitter.com/cWWYlFqBL6 — Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
“My decision is completely based on my wish to experience something different in my career and life and I also want to make sure that I have no regrets when my playing career is eventually over,” said Gerrard.
“From now until the last kick of the last game of the season, I will be as fully committed to the team as I ever have been and giving everything I have to help Liverpool win games.”
Current boss Brendan Rodgers also paid tribute to the impact Gerrard had had on the Merseyside club over the years.
“This is an era where ‘legend’ is vastly overused, but in his case it actually doesn’t do him justice,” he said.
“As a leader and as a man, he is probably incomparable to anyone I have ever worked with.”
Gerrard: “It is my sincere hope and wish that one day I can return to serve #LFC again, in whatever capacity best helps the club.” #LFCicon
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 2, 2015
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