An emotional Steven Gerrard described Liverpool fans as "the best in the world’ and, as he departed Anfield after playing his final home game, backed manager Brendan Rodgers.
After almost 17 years of service, 709 appearances, 185 goals and 10 trophies, the 34-year-old is heading Stateside to resume his career in MLS with LA Galaxy.
Despite his team’s 3-1 defeat at home to Crystal Palace, which ended any lingering hopes of Liverpool qualifying for the Champions League, Gerrard took the time to thank all those who helped him during his stunning career - not least the Anfield faithful.
Speaking to the Anfield crowd, he said: “I’d like to thank everyone at the club who’ve helped me over the last 17 years.
“From top to bottom there’s no order and there’s too many people to name. I’d like to thank all my team-mates in the squad today, even the players that didn’t get on.
“All the ex-players I’ve played with over the years. They’ve made me the player I am today. But I have to save my last thank you to the most important people at any football club but these supporters stand out more than any of them.
“Just before I go, before the tears come I’ve played in front of most supporters around the world but let me tell you, you are the best.”
As for the team he leaves behind, Gerrard told Saturday Night Football: "The club’s in good hands. We’ve got two fantastic owners. We’ve got Ian (Ayre) underneath that and we’ve got a fantastic manager in Brendan.
"There’s unbelievable potential in the squad. I’m sure there will be some new signings in the coming weeks but I just look at the players in front of me, who I’ve shared a dressing room with for many years. I love them to death and wish them many successes in the future."
Reflecting on his final Premier League appearance at Anfield, he told supporters: “It felt very strange. I’ve been dreading this moment and the reason being is I’m going to miss it so much.
“I’ve loved every minute of it and I’m absolutely devastated I’m never going to play in front of these supporters again.
“The first time you ever play for Liverpool Football Club is a dream come true. Everything else after that was a bonus for me so the first time I ever played for Liverpool is an absolute dream.”
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