One of Liverpool’s all-time greats Steve Gerrard has officially announced his retirement from professional football.
English midfielder Steven Gerrard called time on his career in the MLS with LA Galaxy recently, after 18 months with the club, leading to speculation regarding the Liverpool icon’s next move.
The 36-year-old has now officially confirmed that he will be retiring from professional football.
“Following recent media speculation surrounding my future I can confirm my retirement from playing professional football,” Gerrard confirmed in a statement, according to the Guardian.
“I have had an incredible career and am thankful for each and every moment of my time at Liverpool, England and LA Galaxy.”
“I am excited about the future and feel I still have a lot to offer the game, in whatever capacity that may be. I am currently taking my time to consider a number of options and will make an announcement with regards to the next stage of my career very soon.”
Gerrard is widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in the English game. He spent the majority of his professional career playing for boyhood club Liverpool, where he spent 17 seasons. Gerrard has scored 186 goals in more than 700 appearances for the Reds.
The tenacious midfielder has given Liverpool fans many memories to cherish in the new millennium. He played a pivotal role in that magical night in Istanbul, when the Reds came from behind to defeat AC Milan and win the Champions League in 2005.
Gerrard had earlier been offered a managerial role at League One side MK Dons, but he rejected the offer. All indicators seem to now be pointing towards a return to Anfield, with current manager Jurgen Klopp insisting that Gerrard would always be welcome.
The Englishman was being tipped to join Liverpool for a short-term stint till the end of the season. However, the recent announcement means that he will not be joining them as a player, but could still be a part of the club in a coaching capacity.
