Steven Gerrard Reveals Motivation For Leaving Liverpool

In an interview conducted by the official website of Liverpool Football Club, Steven Gerrard disclosed the reason why he decided to end his 26-year association with Liverpool. Gerrard also confirmed that he will continue his playing career in the United States. However, the 34-year-old has yet to choose what franchise he will line up for.

In a report published on Saturday, Gerrard spoke about the pivotal moment.

“There was more than one moment that has made me come to this decision, but I think the key conversation or moment was with the manager when he sat me down not so long ago and said it was time to manage my games for me and for the team.”

Since the end of last season, Steven Gerrard has not shown the same form that allowed Liverpool to go within two points of winning the league. Many things have factored in for that poor form, such as the sale of Luis Suarez, the long term injury of Daniel Sturridge, and the disappointing World Cup campaign with England.

Gerrard also intimated that the decision was a tough one for his family. However, he relishes the challenge of a new phase in his life.

“It was tough to tell the girls, even though they’re not big football fans. They’re more into the girly things in life, but to tell them their dad wasn’t going to play for Liverpool anymore still hit them pretty hard. That’s when the emotion started in the house, that’s when it became tough. At the same time, it’s exciting – it’s a great opportunity for my family and myself. But yes, it’s tough.”

Real Madrid legend Zinedine Zidane paid testament to Steven Gerrard, commending the Liverpool captain’s abilities as well as his loyalty to the club.

“I have said in the past that at his peak he was the best in the world. I think it was the summer of 2004 I was having a conversation with Florentino (Perez) and I told him I wanted him to partner me in midfield for Madrid. I know the club tried twice but he wouldn’t leave Liverpool. Not many players turn down Real Madrid but I think that tells you a lot about the loyalty of the man.”

Many have debated Steven Gerrard’s place in Liverpool history. For many, he is the greatest player of the club’s rich history, and for others, Gerrard may fall behind such greats such as Dalglish and Rush. However, few can debate the phenomenal impact he has made in an era where Liverpool have struggled to compete their contemporary rivals.

Gerrard hasn’t ruled out coming back to Liverpool in the future to help in another capacity.

He said, “I’d like to help in whatever capacity that may be. If I sit down with the people who are running the club at that time and they see a role for me where I can help the team or help young kids to become players, of course I will consider it because, as you say, it’s been such a big part of my life.”

As Steven Gerrard embarks on his new challenge in America, he will try to muster the strength to continue leading his boyhood club to their current commitment in the league. For now, it is still business as usual, and Steven Gerrard will be hoping to captain the Reds yet again in the Third Round FA Cup match against AFC Wimbledon.

[Image via REUTERS/Phil Noble ]