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AFC Wimbledon chief executive Erik Samuelson is dreaming of an FA Cup upset akin to the one they handed to Liverpool in 1988.
The Crazy Gang's victory against the Merseyside behemoths remains of the greatest shocks in the competition's history.
It is a day Samuelson, at Wembley that day with his eldest son, will never forget and one makes Monday's third-round tie with the Reds all the more special.
"Dreams - that what it is all about," the AFC Wimbledon chief executive said.
"It is a chance to dream about what might happen and fond imaginings of the end result.
"I'd like us to be seen to have done well in every respect.
"I want people to come away thinking this is a decent club, they know how to do things properly and they're respectful, but they gave them a hard time on the pitch."
Samuelson additionally hopes Monday's match will highlight the Dons' need to move away from their current Kingsmeadow home, where just 4,800 will be in attendance for Liverpool's visit.
AFC Wimbledon have recently submitted a planning application to return to their spiritual home in Merton, with the club keen to continue the rise that began in 2002.
Infuriated by the decision to allow the old club to relocate to Milton Keynes, the Dons reformed in the Combined Counties League and have since risen to become League Two promotion hopefuls and reach the FA Cup third round.
"I think is a really important milestone," Samuelson said.
"We've had a number of them since we started, be it our first ever game or the game that got us promoted to the Football League. it is up there with them.
"It is the first time we've ever reached the third round of the FA Cup and here we are and draw Liverpool.
"What more could any fan or any club official want for? It's absolutely brilliant."
AFC Wimbledon chief executive Erik Samuelson is dreaming of an FA Cup upset akin to the one they handed to Liverpool in 1988.
The Crazy Gang's victory against the Merseyside behemoths remains of the greatest shocks in the competition's history.
It is a day Samuelson, at Wembley that day with his eldest son, will never forget and one makes Monday's third-round tie with the Reds all the more special.
"Dreams - that what it is all about," the AFC Wimbledon chief executive said.
"It is a chance to dream about what might happen and fond imaginings of the end result.
"I'd like us to be seen to have done well in every respect.
"I want people to come away thinking this is a decent club, they know how to do things properly and they're respectful, but they gave them a hard time on the pitch."
Samuelson additionally hopes Monday's match will highlight the Dons' need to move away from their current Kingsmeadow home, where just 4,800 will be in attendance for Liverpool's visit.
AFC Wimbledon have recently submitted a planning application to return to their spiritual home in Merton, with the club keen to continue the rise that began in 2002.
Infuriated by the decision to allow the old club to relocate to Milton Keynes, the Dons reformed in the Combined Counties League and have since risen to become League Two promotion hopefuls and reach the FA Cup third round.
"I think is a really important milestone," Samuelson said.
"We've had a number of them since we started, be it our first ever game or the game that got us promoted to the Football League. it is up there with them.
"It is the first time we've ever reached the third round of the FA Cup and here we are and draw Liverpool.
"What more could any fan or any club official want for? It's absolutely brilliant."
Steven Gerrard has confirmed he will move to a Major League Soccer club when he leaves Liverpool at the end of the season.
The Reds legend announced on Friday he would be bringing his 17-year Anfield career to an end in the summer, with the USA understood to be his most likely destination.
Gerrard has now confirmed that to LFCTV and he will make the move to MLS when he leaves Merseyside, although he is yet to reveal which club he will be joining.
Los Angeles Galaxy, New York City and New York Red Bulls have all been mentioned as likely candidates to secure his services.
The former England midfielder was always keen to join a club in a league where he would never have to face Liverpool in a competitive fixture and a move to America would ensure that.
The bookmakers have responded by making LA Galaxy the clear favourites to secure Gerrard’s services, with Sky Bet going 1/4 on the Liverpool captain following in David Beckham’s footsteps.
New York City, who signed Frank Lampard in the summer before loaning him to Manchester City, follow in the market at 6/1, with Toronto FC (12/1) and New York Red Bulls (16/1) considered the other main contenders.
Steven Gerrard has confirmed he will move to a Major League Soccer club when he leaves Liverpool at the end of the season.
The Reds legend announced on Friday he would be bringing his 17-year Anfield career to an end in the summer, with the USA understood to be his most likely destination.
Gerrard has now confirmed that to LFCTV and he will make the move to MLS when he leaves Merseyside, although he is yet to reveal which club he will be joining.
Los Angeles Galaxy, New York City and New York Red Bulls have all been mentioned as likely candidates to secure his services.
The former England midfielder was always keen to join a club in a league where he would never have to face Liverpool in a competitive fixture and a move to America would ensure that.
The bookmakers have responded by making LA Galaxy the clear favourites to secure Gerrard’s services, with Sky Bet going 1/4 on the Liverpool captain following in David Beckham’s footsteps.
New York City, who signed Frank Lampard in the summer before loaning him to Manchester City, follow in the market at 6/1, with Toronto FC (12/1) and New York Red Bulls (16/1) considered the other main contenders.
Upon Steven Gerrard‘s announcement that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, former Reds boss Rafa Benitez has spoken about the time he spent working with the midfielder.
Video: YouTube user nhlsarok
Gerrard, 34, confirmed on Saturday morning that he will leave the Premier League to play in America’s MLS, bringing an end to his 16 year career in English football.
Liverpool FC is not just losing a great athlete, or a great footballer,” Benitez wrote on his official website.
“The ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ was only possible because of him. Steven inspired the team that night, refusing to believe it was an impossible job at half time against AC Milan.
He led the charge with a wonderful headed goal and showed the determination needed to win a penalty for our third goal. And when called upon to sacrifice his position on the pitch for the team he didn’t hesitate. It was the perfect stage for him to showcase his talents, and Steven and the other Liverpool players were rewarded with the European Cup.
“He nearly always thrived on the big occasion, producing one of the great FA Cup goals as we beat West Ham at the Millenium Stadium in Cardiff. And the partnership he developed with Fernando Torres produced some of the most exciting attacking football the Premier League has ever seen.
“The club is losing its ‘Red’ heartbeat. Steve, remember, You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
.
Upon Steven Gerrard‘s announcement that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, former Reds boss Rafa Benitez has spoken about the time he spent working with the midfielder.
Video: YouTube user nhlsarok
Gerrard, 34, confirmed on Saturday morning that he will leave the Premier League to play in America’s MLS, bringing an end to his 16 year career in English football.
Liverpool FC is not just losing a great athlete, or a great footballer,” Benitez wrote on his official website.
“The ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ was only possible because of him. Steven inspired the team that night, refusing to believe it was an impossible job at half time against AC Milan.
He led the charge with a wonderful headed goal and showed the determination needed to win a penalty for our third goal. And when called upon to sacrifice his position on the pitch for the team he didn’t hesitate. It was the perfect stage for him to showcase his talents, and Steven and the other Liverpool players were rewarded with the European Cup.
“He nearly always thrived on the big occasion, producing one of the great FA Cup goals as we beat West Ham at the Millenium Stadium in Cardiff. And the partnership he developed with Fernando Torres produced some of the most exciting attacking football the Premier League has ever seen.
“The club is losing its ‘Red’ heartbeat. Steve, remember, You’ll Never Walk Alone.”
.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits it will be virtually impossible to replace Steven Gerrard but he rejected suggestions the club had not done enough to keep their inspirational captain at the club.
Gerrard's close friend Jamie Carragher, who retired almost two years ago, suggested the Reds should have offered the midfielder a coaching position in addition to the extended playing contract which Gerrard ultimately rejected.
However, Rodgers said he knew Gerrard was not ready to step away from playing just yet and with him now due to leave in the summer – for a club in the United States, Liverpool revealed on Twitter – the unenviable plans to fill the void begin in earnest.
"When I came in here (in the summer of 2012) I still believed Steven had a lot to offer the team in terms of his performance and working here I see his great influence in the changing room with other players and the great work he does at the club," said Rodgers.
"But you always have at the back of your mind he will move on and you have to look to bring through the next ones and that has had to be looked at.
"It is near-on impossible to find a direct replacement for someone of that stature and quality but we have to continue with our work and find the top players to come in.
"Steven Gerrard is unique in his play and behaviour so you can't make a direct replacement but, as we have seen over many years in football, there is always the opportunity for the next one to come in."
Owners Fenway Sports Group have already offered Gerrard an as-yet unspecified role at the club when his playing days are finally over but Rodgers said the midfielder was not interested in a coaching role at this moment.
That did not mean the club did not want him to stay on but the likelihood of an increasingly reduced role for a player who turns 35 in May was not an appealing one for Gerrard, although the Reds boss dismissed any suggestions of animosity in their parting.
"Steven's statement makes it clear. He certainly knew my feelings on him wanting to be here," added Rodgers.
"Of course I want him to stay but his role is slightly different and naturally at this level it was going to be tapered a bit.
"He wasn't ready to move into coaching yet, he still sees himself very much as a player but when that time comes and he retires that is maybe something we can look at then as he is someone who would be brilliant to have as part of the staff here.
"At the moment his concentration is on his football. He said himself he leaves on good terms so anything else said would be wide of the mark."
Major League Soccer was immediately identified as a likely destination for Gerrard and a tweet from Liverpool, trailing an interview with Gerrard later today, read: "Steven Gerrard confirms he will move to the USA this summer. Watch exclusive interview at 5pm."
The Los Angeles Galaxy have emerged as the early front-runners, although they refused to comment on "players who are not signed by the club" when contacted by Press Association Sport.
Rodgers said Gerrard had been in "turmoil" over his decision but he supported the former England captain's lifestyle change.
And he also rejected claims the disappointment of last season's Premier League title near-miss combined with a difficult start to the current campaign had made it a poor 2014 for the 34-year-old.
"It is worth pointing out in 2014 we nearly won the league because of Steven Gerrard," he said.
"Everyone references the slip in the Chelsea game but we had 38 games to win the league and we just came up short.
"Steven Gerrard captained this team on an incredible run and a big part of why we were challenging was because of him.
"His performances were monumental for us in the second half of last season and his influence on the team on the field gave us the opportunity to win the league.
"This opening period (of this season) is not what we would have wanted but that will not have changed his mind as he's had highs and lows in his career.
"Come the end of the season he will be 35, he has given it a chance to look at his footballing life and has felt the best decision is to move away from Liverpool."
PA
.
Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers admits it will be virtually impossible to replace Steven Gerrard but he rejected suggestions the club had not done enough to keep their inspirational captain at the club.
Gerrard's close friend Jamie Carragher, who retired almost two years ago, suggested the Reds should have offered the midfielder a coaching position in addition to the extended playing contract which Gerrard ultimately rejected.
However, Rodgers said he knew Gerrard was not ready to step away from playing just yet and with him now due to leave in the summer – for a club in the United States, Liverpool revealed on Twitter – the unenviable plans to fill the void begin in earnest.
"When I came in here (in the summer of 2012) I still believed Steven had a lot to offer the team in terms of his performance and working here I see his great influence in the changing room with other players and the great work he does at the club," said Rodgers.
"But you always have at the back of your mind he will move on and you have to look to bring through the next ones and that has had to be looked at.
"It is near-on impossible to find a direct replacement for someone of that stature and quality but we have to continue with our work and find the top players to come in.
"Steven Gerrard is unique in his play and behaviour so you can't make a direct replacement but, as we have seen over many years in football, there is always the opportunity for the next one to come in."
Owners Fenway Sports Group have already offered Gerrard an as-yet unspecified role at the club when his playing days are finally over but Rodgers said the midfielder was not interested in a coaching role at this moment.
That did not mean the club did not want him to stay on but the likelihood of an increasingly reduced role for a player who turns 35 in May was not an appealing one for Gerrard, although the Reds boss dismissed any suggestions of animosity in their parting.
"Steven's statement makes it clear. He certainly knew my feelings on him wanting to be here," added Rodgers.
"Of course I want him to stay but his role is slightly different and naturally at this level it was going to be tapered a bit.
"He wasn't ready to move into coaching yet, he still sees himself very much as a player but when that time comes and he retires that is maybe something we can look at then as he is someone who would be brilliant to have as part of the staff here.
"At the moment his concentration is on his football. He said himself he leaves on good terms so anything else said would be wide of the mark."
Major League Soccer was immediately identified as a likely destination for Gerrard and a tweet from Liverpool, trailing an interview with Gerrard later today, read: "Steven Gerrard confirms he will move to the USA this summer. Watch exclusive interview at 5pm."
The Los Angeles Galaxy have emerged as the early front-runners, although they refused to comment on "players who are not signed by the club" when contacted by Press Association Sport.
Rodgers said Gerrard had been in "turmoil" over his decision but he supported the former England captain's lifestyle change.
And he also rejected claims the disappointment of last season's Premier League title near-miss combined with a difficult start to the current campaign had made it a poor 2014 for the 34-year-old.
"It is worth pointing out in 2014 we nearly won the league because of Steven Gerrard," he said.
"Everyone references the slip in the Chelsea game but we had 38 games to win the league and we just came up short.
"Steven Gerrard captained this team on an incredible run and a big part of why we were challenging was because of him.
"His performances were monumental for us in the second half of last season and his influence on the team on the field gave us the opportunity to win the league.
"This opening period (of this season) is not what we would have wanted but that will not have changed his mind as he's had highs and lows in his career.
"Come the end of the season he will be 35, he has given it a chance to look at his footballing life and has felt the best decision is to move away from Liverpool."
PA
.
Ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup third round trip to League Two AFC Wimbledon, Henry Jackson picks three players he’d like to see start the match – and three who need a rest.
It has been an extremely busy few weeks for Liverpool in terms of fixtures, with four Premier League games in the space of 11 days. Eight points from those matches is pretty reasonable.
The likelihood is that this relentless schedule will have taken its toll on many Reds players, however, with some featuring in every game over the festive period.
With Wimbledon looming in the FA Cup third round on Monday evening, it is imperative that Rodgers rotates his side a little. If you can’t beat a League 2 side without some of your key players, you don’t deserve to reach the next round in truth.
Here is who the Northern Irishman should look at starting and resting for the trip to Kingsmeadow.
START
SHEYI OJO
Much has been made of the progress Ojo has made, and the huge talent he possesses, and it makes perfect sense to give him his Liverpool bow on Monday.
The 17-year-old, who joined the Reds from MK Dons in 2011, is a pacey, tricky winger who can thrive on either flank; there are clear comparisons to be made with Raheem Sterling.
Had Liverpool not suddenly squandered a two-goal lead against Leicester on New Year’s Day, chances are Ojo would have been given his debut in the second-half. Unfortunately, things didn’t quite go to plan.
There is an argument to say that throwing a youngster into the Reds side at an old-school ground, against a physical lower league side, is a risk, but with experienced players alongside him there is no reason why Ojo won’t flourish.
The 24-year-old seems to have fallen completely out of favour under Rodgers, and there can be little doubting that Liverpool’s attack has had far more pace and fluency without him in the team.
It looks as though he will only be a fringe player for the remainder of the season, when he will likely leave, which means starting games like this.
The Italian may look like he couldn’t care less at times, but deep down he is a sensitive soul who will want to prove a point to his manager.
There is so much talent at Balotelli’s disposal, and it’s such a shame he can’t seem to showcase it on a consistent basis. A starting berth and a couple of goals against Wimbledon could give him a huge confidence boost.
SUSO
Suso is something of a forgotten man on Merseyside, having been so highly-rated during the early months of Rodgers’ reign at the club.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, who made 14 appearances for the Reds in 2012/13, spent last season on loan at La Liga side Almeria, while injuries have hampered him since his return to Liverpool.
Having missed two months of action he is now back fit, and although there is a definite risk element in starting him- he could be extremely rusty- the level of opponent is far more inferior than bringing him back against a Premier League side.
Perhaps a place in the squad, with a second-half cameo, is more sensible, and likely, but he has the quality to slot into the starting eleven effectively.
Ahead of Liverpool’s FA Cup third round trip to League Two AFC Wimbledon, Henry Jackson picks three players he’d like to see start the match – and three who need a rest.
It has been an extremely busy few weeks for Liverpool in terms of fixtures, with four Premier League games in the space of 11 days. Eight points from those matches is pretty reasonable.
The likelihood is that this relentless schedule will have taken its toll on many Reds players, however, with some featuring in every game over the festive period.
With Wimbledon looming in the FA Cup third round on Monday evening, it is imperative that Rodgers rotates his side a little. If you can’t beat a League 2 side without some of your key players, you don’t deserve to reach the next round in truth.
Here is who the Northern Irishman should look at starting and resting for the trip to Kingsmeadow.
START
SHEYI OJO
Much has been made of the progress Ojo has made, and the huge talent he possesses, and it makes perfect sense to give him his Liverpool bow on Monday.
The 17-year-old, who joined the Reds from MK Dons in 2011, is a pacey, tricky winger who can thrive on either flank; there are clear comparisons to be made with Raheem Sterling.
Had Liverpool not suddenly squandered a two-goal lead against Leicester on New Year’s Day, chances are Ojo would have been given his debut in the second-half. Unfortunately, things didn’t quite go to plan.
There is an argument to say that throwing a youngster into the Reds side at an old-school ground, against a physical lower league side, is a risk, but with experienced players alongside him there is no reason why Ojo won’t flourish.
The 24-year-old seems to have fallen completely out of favour under Rodgers, and there can be little doubting that Liverpool’s attack has had far more pace and fluency without him in the team.
It looks as though he will only be a fringe player for the remainder of the season, when he will likely leave, which means starting games like this.
The Italian may look like he couldn’t care less at times, but deep down he is a sensitive soul who will want to prove a point to his manager.
There is so much talent at Balotelli’s disposal, and it’s such a shame he can’t seem to showcase it on a consistent basis. A starting berth and a couple of goals against Wimbledon could give him a huge confidence boost.
SUSO
Suso is something of a forgotten man on Merseyside, having been so highly-rated during the early months of Rodgers’ reign at the club.
The 21-year-old Spaniard, who made 14 appearances for the Reds in 2012/13, spent last season on loan at La Liga side Almeria, while injuries have hampered him since his return to Liverpool.
Having missed two months of action he is now back fit, and although there is a definite risk element in starting him- he could be extremely rusty- the level of opponent is far more inferior than bringing him back against a Premier League side.
Perhaps a place in the squad, with a second-half cameo, is more sensible, and likely, but he has the quality to slot into the starting eleven effectively.
The first weekend of the January transfer window is always bound to see plenty of random rumours in the papers, especially following Steven Gerrard‘s decision to leave the club in the summer.
First up is the claim in The Telegraph that Liverpool have been offered former Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe – who is set to leave MLS side Toronto FC.
The 32-year-old scored 11 goals in 19 appearances in the 2014 MLS season for Toronto but missed large chunks of their season and has received criticism from their fanbase.
Leicester City and Hull City are also said to be interested.
Meanwhile, more MLS talk involves Gerrard’s expected move Stateside, with Los Angeles Galaxy the favourites for his signature.
The Mirror claim Galaxy have offered to match the £100,000 per week they paid David Beckham. Gerrard would sign a four-year deal with the club.
Speaking of Gerrard, The Telegraph‘s Merseyside reporter Chris Bascombe claims the club are already considering loaning the iconic midfielder back next season.
“Liverpool noted how Thierry Henry took the opportunity to train at Arsenal and then became a short-term signing,” writes Bascombe.
.
The first weekend of the January transfer window is always bound to see plenty of random rumours in the papers, especially following Steven Gerrard‘s decision to leave the club in the summer.
First up is the claim in The Telegraph that Liverpool have been offered former Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe – who is set to leave MLS side Toronto FC.
The 32-year-old scored 11 goals in 19 appearances in the 2014 MLS season for Toronto but missed large chunks of their season and has received criticism from their fanbase.
Leicester City and Hull City are also said to be interested.
Meanwhile, more MLS talk involves Gerrard’s expected move Stateside, with Los Angeles Galaxy the favourites for his signature.
The Mirror claim Galaxy have offered to match the £100,000 per week they paid David Beckham. Gerrard would sign a four-year deal with the club.
Speaking of Gerrard, The Telegraph‘s Merseyside reporter Chris Bascombe claims the club are already considering loaning the iconic midfielder back next season.
“Liverpool noted how Thierry Henry took the opportunity to train at Arsenal and then became a short-term signing,” writes Bascombe.
.
Steven Gerrard has confirmed he will move to the MLS when he leaves boyhood club Liverpool at the end of the season.
The Reds legend announced on Friday he would be bringing his 17-year Anfield career to an end in the summer, with the USA understood to be his most likely destination.
Gerrard has now confirmed that to LFCTV and he will make the move to the MLS when he leaves Merseyside, although he is yet to reveal which club he will be joining.
LA Galaxy, New York City and New York Red Bulls have all been mentioned as likely candidates to secure his services.
The former England midfielder was always keen to join a club in a league where he would never have to face Liverpool in a competitive fixture and a move to America would ensure that.
Steven Gerrard has confirmed he will move to the MLS when he leaves boyhood club Liverpool at the end of the season.
The Reds legend announced on Friday he would be bringing his 17-year Anfield career to an end in the summer, with the USA understood to be his most likely destination.
Gerrard has now confirmed that to LFCTV and he will make the move to the MLS when he leaves Merseyside, although he is yet to reveal which club he will be joining.
LA Galaxy, New York City and New York Red Bulls have all been mentioned as likely candidates to secure his services.
The former England midfielder was always keen to join a club in a league where he would never have to face Liverpool in a competitive fixture and a move to America would ensure that.
Brendan Rodgers reiterated his respect for Steven Gerrard at his press conference at Melwood on Saturday morning, in a week in which the Liverpool captain announced he will leave the club at the end of the season.
The 34-year-old will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, with a move to the MLS in the United States expected.
“I’ve been in conversations with Steven about it for quite a while,” Rodgers told the media. “Once he had made final decision he wanted me to know first.
“He could have let it run through until the end of the season and not said anything, but he’s a special kind of character and had the club’s and the fans’ best interests at heart.
“If he had his way there’d be no more said about it.”
“We nearly won the league last year because of Gerrard. He captained this team on an incredible run and was a monumental influence for us.
“It’s nearly impossible to find a direct replacement — someone of that stature and quality. For us it’s about finding the next youngster from the best local talent. There is a lot of great work going on at our Academy.”
Liverpool take on AFC Wimbledon on Monday 5 January. Kick-off is 7.55pm and it’s live on BBC One in the UK.
.
Brendan Rodgers reiterated his respect for Steven Gerrard at his press conference at Melwood on Saturday morning, in a week in which the Liverpool captain announced he will leave the club at the end of the season.
The 34-year-old will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, with a move to the MLS in the United States expected.
“I’ve been in conversations with Steven about it for quite a while,” Rodgers told the media. “Once he had made final decision he wanted me to know first.
“He could have let it run through until the end of the season and not said anything, but he’s a special kind of character and had the club’s and the fans’ best interests at heart.
“If he had his way there’d be no more said about it.”
“We nearly won the league last year because of Gerrard. He captained this team on an incredible run and was a monumental influence for us.
“It’s nearly impossible to find a direct replacement — someone of that stature and quality. For us it’s about finding the next youngster from the best local talent. There is a lot of great work going on at our Academy.”
Liverpool take on AFC Wimbledon on Monday 5 January. Kick-off is 7.55pm and it’s live on BBC One in the UK.
.
Liverpool FanZoner Rich Garnett looks back at the career of Steven Gerrard following the announcement of the Anfield legend's summer exit.
The date is Wednesday 8th December 2004. In the dying minutes of Liverpool's crucial Champions League group stage match against Olympiacos at Anfield, the home side are seemingly about to be dumped out of the competition.
Having started the second half 1-0 down thanks to a Rivaldo free-kick, the Reds need to score three goals to go through and the chances of that happening look pretty slim.
Goals from unlikely heroes Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor give Liverpool a chance but as time ticks away the Greek side are still going through.
With just four minutes remaining enter the fray Steven Gerrard, who with one swipe of his blessed right foot, blasts a thunderbolt past goalkeeper Anatolskis into the Kop goal sending Anfield delirious with a state of euphoria.
In doing so, he kick-started a run to unimaginable glory that will be spoken of long after we have all left this mortal coil.
As Gerrard darts to the Kop end in ecstasy with his delighted team-mates in hot pursuit, a supporter can be seen scampering down the steps to join in the celebrations, followed by many more.
That supporter was me at 25-years-old and this is what Steven Gerrard did. He made the fans happy and gave them belief. That's what football should do to you.
When people wax lyrical about Gerrard, inevitably the same big games come up - Olympiacos, Istanbul, the FA Cup final against West ham - they are the successes that elevated him to football icon status.
They say players are remembered by what they won. Although Gerrard can leave Anfield with a satisfactory haul of trophies including a European Cup, it is not just his tendency to perform on the big occasion that makes him, for my money, Liverpool's greatest player of all time.
The reason he is the greatest is because he was the best player on the pitch in almost every game he played for 16 seasons.
To be the best a player must perform to the highest level, week in week out and no one has done that better than Huyton's finest.
A player can only hope to achieve such standards if he is motivated to win. Even more so in this day and age of unpalatable wages and disdain for club loyalty.
Captain of Liverpool at 22, he has lead by example with his performances on the pitch rather than overzealous vocal chords.
One particular occasion that sticks out for me was a rather inconsequential Europa League match against Napoli at Anfield during the doomed reign of Roy Hodgson.
Following a miserable first 45 minutes, which ended with the vastly superior Italians 1-0 up, Gerrard was introduced as a half time substitute.
He immediately took control of the match, bullied the visitors into submission and smashed in a second half hat trick as Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners.
That was Gerrard at his very best, dictating the play and weighing in with goals when it mattered.
Of course, to date, a Premier League winners' medal has eluded him. In his heart he must have believed that objective would be realised last season as his free-scoring side steam rolled to within 3 points of a 19th top flight championship.
Gerrard's decision to leave his boy hood club at the end of the season has been greeted like a death in the family. But there are two reasons why I believe this should not be the case.
Firstly, his decision to leave is the right one. Throughout is entire career he has been the best player on the pitch but his ageing legs no longer allow him to be that man.
Brendan Rodgers has tried to accommodate him in a deeper midfield role but it has not benefited the team and at times has hampered them.
Steven Gerrard and bit-part player don't go in the same sentence so hopeful suggestions that he may accept reduced involvement at the club beyond this season were never likely to materialise.
But perhaps most importantly, Liverpool FC does not have time for an obituary on a player who still plays for them.
The captain my not play every game from now until the end of the season but his contribution to ensuring his team retain a place in the Champions League will be as vital as it ever was.
Fans of my generation have grown from teenagers into fathers during Gerrard's Liverpool career - just like him - and we can thank him for giving us many a memorable night in our twenties.
But he can admire his own work at the end of the season. Until then there is important business to be done making the current Liverpool team successful.
The blueprint of his career might provide some answers.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
Liverpool FanZoner Rich Garnett looks back at the career of Steven Gerrard following the announcement of the Anfield legend's summer exit.
The date is Wednesday 8th December 2004. In the dying minutes of Liverpool's crucial Champions League group stage match against Olympiacos at Anfield, the home side are seemingly about to be dumped out of the competition.
Having started the second half 1-0 down thanks to a Rivaldo free-kick, the Reds need to score three goals to go through and the chances of that happening look pretty slim.
Goals from unlikely heroes Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor give Liverpool a chance but as time ticks away the Greek side are still going through.
With just four minutes remaining enter the fray Steven Gerrard, who with one swipe of his blessed right foot, blasts a thunderbolt past goalkeeper Anatolskis into the Kop goal sending Anfield delirious with a state of euphoria.
In doing so, he kick-started a run to unimaginable glory that will be spoken of long after we have all left this mortal coil.
As Gerrard darts to the Kop end in ecstasy with his delighted team-mates in hot pursuit, a supporter can be seen scampering down the steps to join in the celebrations, followed by many more.
That supporter was me at 25-years-old and this is what Steven Gerrard did. He made the fans happy and gave them belief. That's what football should do to you.
When people wax lyrical about Gerrard, inevitably the same big games come up - Olympiacos, Istanbul, the FA Cup final against West ham - they are the successes that elevated him to football icon status.
They say players are remembered by what they won. Although Gerrard can leave Anfield with a satisfactory haul of trophies including a European Cup, it is not just his tendency to perform on the big occasion that makes him, for my money, Liverpool's greatest player of all time.
The reason he is the greatest is because he was the best player on the pitch in almost every game he played for 16 seasons.
To be the best a player must perform to the highest level, week in week out and no one has done that better than Huyton's finest.
A player can only hope to achieve such standards if he is motivated to win. Even more so in this day and age of unpalatable wages and disdain for club loyalty.
Captain of Liverpool at 22, he has lead by example with his performances on the pitch rather than overzealous vocal chords.
One particular occasion that sticks out for me was a rather inconsequential Europa League match against Napoli at Anfield during the doomed reign of Roy Hodgson.
Following a miserable first 45 minutes, which ended with the vastly superior Italians 1-0 up, Gerrard was introduced as a half time substitute.
He immediately took control of the match, bullied the visitors into submission and smashed in a second half hat trick as Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners.
That was Gerrard at his very best, dictating the play and weighing in with goals when it mattered.
Of course, to date, a Premier League winners' medal has eluded him. In his heart he must have believed that objective would be realised last season as his free-scoring side steam rolled to within 3 points of a 19th top flight championship.
Gerrard's decision to leave his boy hood club at the end of the season has been greeted like a death in the family. But there are two reasons why I believe this should not be the case.
Firstly, his decision to leave is the right one. Throughout is entire career he has been the best player on the pitch but his ageing legs no longer allow him to be that man.
Brendan Rodgers has tried to accommodate him in a deeper midfield role but it has not benefited the team and at times has hampered them.
Steven Gerrard and bit-part player don't go in the same sentence so hopeful suggestions that he may accept reduced involvement at the club beyond this season were never likely to materialise.
But perhaps most importantly, Liverpool FC does not have time for an obituary on a player who still plays for them.
The captain my not play every game from now until the end of the season but his contribution to ensuring his team retain a place in the Champions League will be as vital as it ever was.
Fans of my generation have grown from teenagers into fathers during Gerrard's Liverpool career - just like him - and we can thank him for giving us many a memorable night in our twenties.
But he can admire his own work at the end of the season. Until then there is important business to be done making the current Liverpool team successful.
The blueprint of his career might provide some answers.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson - the man who will take on Steven Gerrard's mantle as captain next season - admits the players have to find a way of dealing with the impending departure of such an iconic figure.
Gerrard will leave the club at the end of the season with a new career, most probably in Major League Soccer in the United States, beckoning.
Henderson was appointed vice-captain earlier this season but by the time he takes over the armband he will already be two years older than when Gerrard did so in 2003.
He knows he has huge boots to fill but accepts all the players will have a period of adjustment to make.
"It was a big shock this morning to see that Stevie will be leaving at the end of the season," Henderson told BBC Football Focus.
"It will be difficult because he's such a leader of our group and such a figurehead - he has been for many years.
"It will be a shock to everyone, especially us players. We've just got to try to deal with it as best we can."
Another Anfield icon Kenny Dalglish, whom many now regard as second to Gerrard as the club's all-time best player, paid his own tribute.
"I don't want to single out one goal or one performance," he wrote in the Daily Mirror.
"I just want to say I feel lucky that he was a Liverpool player and that I saw him play."
Gerrard has insisted he will not play for another side who could face his boyhood club, where he has been since the age of eight.
Nevertheless, it did not prevent Southampton manager Ronald Koeman offering him a place next season.
"It is maybe a little bit strange to see Steven Gerrard out of the club Liverpool, and if he likes to continue, he can come (here)," said the Dutchman.
"I am serious - if he likes to continue football in England, he can come.
"For Steven Gerarrd, you have always a position for him.
"He is a fantastic football player, really at the top level in the midfield position and the captain of the club, with an impressive football career."
Liverpool midfielder Jordan Henderson - the man who will take on Steven Gerrard's mantle as captain next season - admits the players have to find a way of dealing with the impending departure of such an iconic figure.
Gerrard will leave the club at the end of the season with a new career, most probably in Major League Soccer in the United States, beckoning.
Henderson was appointed vice-captain earlier this season but by the time he takes over the armband he will already be two years older than when Gerrard did so in 2003.
He knows he has huge boots to fill but accepts all the players will have a period of adjustment to make.
"It was a big shock this morning to see that Stevie will be leaving at the end of the season," Henderson told BBC Football Focus.
"It will be difficult because he's such a leader of our group and such a figurehead - he has been for many years.
"It will be a shock to everyone, especially us players. We've just got to try to deal with it as best we can."
Another Anfield icon Kenny Dalglish, whom many now regard as second to Gerrard as the club's all-time best player, paid his own tribute.
"I don't want to single out one goal or one performance," he wrote in the Daily Mirror.
"I just want to say I feel lucky that he was a Liverpool player and that I saw him play."
Gerrard has insisted he will not play for another side who could face his boyhood club, where he has been since the age of eight.
Nevertheless, it did not prevent Southampton manager Ronald Koeman offering him a place next season.
"It is maybe a little bit strange to see Steven Gerrard out of the club Liverpool, and if he likes to continue, he can come (here)," said the Dutchman.
"I am serious - if he likes to continue football in England, he can come.
"For Steven Gerarrd, you have always a position for him.
"He is a fantastic football player, really at the top level in the midfield position and the captain of the club, with an impressive football career."
West Brom technical director Terry Burton has hinted the Baggies could sell Saido Berahino in January - if a bid of £20million comes in.
Burton has left the door open for the striker's exit this month but insisted Albion would not allow their star to leave on the cheap.
Liverpool have been linked with a move for the nine-goal hitman, but Press Association Sport understands the Baggies have not held talks with the Reds.
Burton insisted new head coach Tony Pulis would have the final say in any transfer deals but could grant a move for Berahino if it was best for the club.
"Tony will do and work whatever way is best for the football club. He tries to win football matches and if he needs to sell somebody to do something else he will sell them," said Burton, who confirmed Albion have put contract negotiations with Berahino on hold.
"He will do whatever is best to get results for the club and that could involve any aspect of the policy. Whatever he wants we will work our hardest to make happen. Tony is in total charge."
But Burton insisted Albion would not sell the England Under-21 international for less than £20million.
"I don't think he (Pulis) would take that small amount of money," he said.
"He is worth what some club would pay for him. If a club want a player bad enough and they are top quality players and if they have the finances they try and do that."
Pulis was unveiled at The Hawthorns on Friday, after replacing Alan Irvine, ahead of his first game in charge against Gateshead in the FA Cup on Saturday.
He has been out of work since leaving Crystal Palace in August after saving them from relegation last term.
Pulis took over at Selhurst Park in November 2013 when Palace were second bottom of the Barclays Premier League with seven points from 12 games.
The Eagles had been written off but he guided them to 11th before leaving after a disagreement over transfer policy.
Albion are 17th in the table, a point above the drop zone, and Pulis underlined the difficulty of the job.
"This is the shortest period of time I've had at any football club to turn results around. That's why I think it will be as difficult, if not more difficult, than Palace," he said.
"I knew exactly where we were at Palace after two months. I hope we can get that instant reaction and go on to win games but it will be really tough.
"If you look at the bottom 12 here, it's never been tighter. You look at what Burnley, Leicester and QPR have done. They've had good results and will be fighting right through to the end."
West Brom technical director Terry Burton has hinted the Baggies could sell Saido Berahino in January - if a bid of £20million comes in.
Burton has left the door open for the striker's exit this month but insisted Albion would not allow their star to leave on the cheap.
Liverpool have been linked with a move for the nine-goal hitman, but Press Association Sport understands the Baggies have not held talks with the Reds.
Burton insisted new head coach Tony Pulis would have the final say in any transfer deals but could grant a move for Berahino if it was best for the club.
"Tony will do and work whatever way is best for the football club. He tries to win football matches and if he needs to sell somebody to do something else he will sell them," said Burton, who confirmed Albion have put contract negotiations with Berahino on hold.
"He will do whatever is best to get results for the club and that could involve any aspect of the policy. Whatever he wants we will work our hardest to make happen. Tony is in total charge."
But Burton insisted Albion would not sell the England Under-21 international for less than £20million.
"I don't think he (Pulis) would take that small amount of money," he said.
"He is worth what some club would pay for him. If a club want a player bad enough and they are top quality players and if they have the finances they try and do that."
Pulis was unveiled at The Hawthorns on Friday, after replacing Alan Irvine, ahead of his first game in charge against Gateshead in the FA Cup on Saturday.
He has been out of work since leaving Crystal Palace in August after saving them from relegation last term.
Pulis took over at Selhurst Park in November 2013 when Palace were second bottom of the Barclays Premier League with seven points from 12 games.
The Eagles had been written off but he guided them to 11th before leaving after a disagreement over transfer policy.
Albion are 17th in the table, a point above the drop zone, and Pulis underlined the difficulty of the job.
"This is the shortest period of time I've had at any football club to turn results around. That's why I think it will be as difficult, if not more difficult, than Palace," he said.
"I knew exactly where we were at Palace after two months. I hope we can get that instant reaction and go on to win games but it will be really tough.
"If you look at the bottom 12 here, it's never been tighter. You look at what Burnley, Leicester and QPR have done. They've had good results and will be fighting right through to the end."
Liverpool FanZoner Rich Garnett looks back at the career of Steven Gerrard following the announcement of the Anfield legend's summer exit.
The date is Wednesday 8th December 2004. In the dying minutes of Liverpool's crucial Champions League group stage match against Olympiacos at Anfield, the home side are seemingly about to be dumped out of the competition.
Having started the second half 1-0 down thanks to a Rivaldo free-kick, the Reds need to score three goals to go through and the chances of that happening look pretty slim.
Goals from unlikely heroes Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor give Liverpool a chance but as time ticks away the Greek side are still going through.
With just four minutes remaining enter the fray Steven Gerrard, who with one swipe of his blessed right foot, blasts a thunderbolt past goalkeeper Anatolskis into the Kop goal sending Anfield delirious with a state of euphoria.
In doing so, he kick-started a run to unimaginable glory that will be spoken of long after we have all left this mortal coil.
As Gerrard darts to the Kop end in ecstasy with his delighted team-mates in hot pursuit, a supporter can be seen scampering down the steps to join in the celebrations, followed by many more.
That supporter was me at 25-years-old and this is what Steven Gerrard did. He made the fans happy and gave them belief. That's what football should do to you.
When people wax lyrical about Gerrard, inevitably the same big games come up - Olympiacos, Istanbul, the FA Cup final against West ham - they are the successes that elevated him to football icon status.
They say players are remembered by what they won. Although Gerrard can leave Anfield with a satisfactory haul of trophies including a European Cup, it is not just his tendency to perform on the big occasion that makes him, for my money, Liverpool's greatest player of all time.
The reason he is the greatest is because he was the best player on the pitch in almost every game he played for 16 seasons.
To be the best a player must perform to the highest level, week in week out and no one has done that better than Huyton's finest.
A player can only hope to achieve such standards if he is motivated to win. Even more so in this day and age of unpalatable wages and disdain for club loyalty.
Captain of Liverpool at 22, he has lead by example with his performances on the pitch rather than overzealous vocal chords.
One particular occasion that sticks out for me was a rather inconsequential Europa League match against Napoli at Anfield during the doomed reign of Roy Hodgson.
Following a miserable first 45 minutes, which ended with the vastly superior Italians 1-0 up, Gerrard was introduced as a half time substitute.
He immediately took control of the match, bullied the visitors into submission and smashed in a second half hat trick as Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners.
That was Gerrard at his very best, dictating the play and weighing in with goals when it mattered.
Of course, to date, a Premier League winners' medal has eluded him. In his heart he must have believed that objective would be realised last season as his free-scoring side steam rolled to within 3 points of a 19th top flight championship.
Gerrard's decision to leave his boy hood club at the end of the season has been greeted like a death in the family. But there are two reasons why I believe this should not be the case.
Firstly, his decision to leave is the right one. Throughout is entire career he has been the best player on the pitch but his ageing legs no longer allow him to be that man.
Brendan Rodgers has tried to accommodate him in a deeper midfield role but it has not benefited the team and at times has hampered them.
Steven Gerrard and bit-part player don't go in the same sentence so hopeful suggestions that he may accept reduced involvement at the club beyond this season were never likely to materialise.
But perhaps most importantly, Liverpool FC does not have time for an obituary on a player who still plays for them.
The captain my not play every game from now until the end of the season but his contribution to ensuring his team retain a place in the Champions League will be as vital as it ever was.
Fans of my generation have grown from teenagers into fathers during Gerrard's Liverpool career - just like him - and we can thank him for giving us many a memorable night in our twenties.
But he can admire his own work at the end of the season. Until then there is important business to be done making the current Liverpool team successful.
The blueprint of his career might provide some answers.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
Liverpool FanZoner Rich Garnett looks back at the career of Steven Gerrard following the announcement of the Anfield legend's summer exit.
The date is Wednesday 8th December 2004. In the dying minutes of Liverpool's crucial Champions League group stage match against Olympiacos at Anfield, the home side are seemingly about to be dumped out of the competition.
Having started the second half 1-0 down thanks to a Rivaldo free-kick, the Reds need to score three goals to go through and the chances of that happening look pretty slim.
Goals from unlikely heroes Florent Sinama-Pongolle and Neil Mellor give Liverpool a chance but as time ticks away the Greek side are still going through.
With just four minutes remaining enter the fray Steven Gerrard, who with one swipe of his blessed right foot, blasts a thunderbolt past goalkeeper Anatolskis into the Kop goal sending Anfield delirious with a state of euphoria.
In doing so, he kick-started a run to unimaginable glory that will be spoken of long after we have all left this mortal coil.
As Gerrard darts to the Kop end in ecstasy with his delighted team-mates in hot pursuit, a supporter can be seen scampering down the steps to join in the celebrations, followed by many more.
That supporter was me at 25-years-old and this is what Steven Gerrard did. He made the fans happy and gave them belief. That's what football should do to you.
When people wax lyrical about Gerrard, inevitably the same big games come up - Olympiacos, Istanbul, the FA Cup final against West ham - they are the successes that elevated him to football icon status.
They say players are remembered by what they won. Although Gerrard can leave Anfield with a satisfactory haul of trophies including a European Cup, it is not just his tendency to perform on the big occasion that makes him, for my money, Liverpool's greatest player of all time.
The reason he is the greatest is because he was the best player on the pitch in almost every game he played for 16 seasons.
To be the best a player must perform to the highest level, week in week out and no one has done that better than Huyton's finest.
A player can only hope to achieve such standards if he is motivated to win. Even more so in this day and age of unpalatable wages and disdain for club loyalty.
Captain of Liverpool at 22, he has lead by example with his performances on the pitch rather than overzealous vocal chords.
One particular occasion that sticks out for me was a rather inconsequential Europa League match against Napoli at Anfield during the doomed reign of Roy Hodgson.
Following a miserable first 45 minutes, which ended with the vastly superior Italians 1-0 up, Gerrard was introduced as a half time substitute.
He immediately took control of the match, bullied the visitors into submission and smashed in a second half hat trick as Liverpool ran out 3-1 winners.
That was Gerrard at his very best, dictating the play and weighing in with goals when it mattered.
Of course, to date, a Premier League winners' medal has eluded him. In his heart he must have believed that objective would be realised last season as his free-scoring side steam rolled to within 3 points of a 19th top flight championship.
Gerrard's decision to leave his boy hood club at the end of the season has been greeted like a death in the family. But there are two reasons why I believe this should not be the case.
Firstly, his decision to leave is the right one. Throughout is entire career he has been the best player on the pitch but his ageing legs no longer allow him to be that man.
Brendan Rodgers has tried to accommodate him in a deeper midfield role but it has not benefited the team and at times has hampered them.
Steven Gerrard and bit-part player don't go in the same sentence so hopeful suggestions that he may accept reduced involvement at the club beyond this season were never likely to materialise.
But perhaps most importantly, Liverpool FC does not have time for an obituary on a player who still plays for them.
The captain my not play every game from now until the end of the season but his contribution to ensuring his team retain a place in the Champions League will be as vital as it ever was.
Fans of my generation have grown from teenagers into fathers during Gerrard's Liverpool career - just like him - and we can thank him for giving us many a memorable night in our twenties.
But he can admire his own work at the end of the season. Until then there is important business to be done making the current Liverpool team successful.
The blueprint of his career might provide some answers.
By Liverpool FanZoner Richard Garnett. Follow him on Twitter here, and don't forget you can follow @FanZone too!
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