January 5 – Former England captain Steven Gerrard says his decision to leave Liverpool and become the latest footballing icon to further his career in the United States was the toughest decision of his life.
Gerrard, who joined Liverpool when he was eight, will move to an as yet unnamed Major League Soccer club after the end of the season. “I’m not over the line with any team yet. I’m close and as soon as I know, I’ll make the announcement,” he told Liverpool’s website.
Gerrard says being told by Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers that he will start fewer games is the main reason he has decided to move on.
“The key conversation was when the manager sat me down and said it was time to manage my games. It was a very difficult conversation to have. I’m bright enough to realise it is the right thing. I accept it.”
“When you’ve been a starter and a mainstay in the team for such a long time… I had an idea the conversation was going to come at some time, but it was a painful conversation.”
Los Angeles Galaxy, where David Beckham made such a name for himself, have been mooted as one possible destination for Gerrard who is still only 34 and whose decision has shocked many within the English game who believe he could have played on for at least another two years at his boyhood club. New York Red Bulls, whose global head of football is former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, could also be interested.
Despite his 114 internationals for England, Gerrard’s one regret will surely be never winning the domestic league title. But he is looking forward to what will most likely be his final move as a player. “Playing in the United States is exciting – it’s a great opportunity for my family and myself.”
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