Liverpool – the club, the city, the people, fans world wide – were rocked yesterday after skipper Steven Gerrard announced he will leave the club at the end of the season. It was indeed one of the saddest day for every Red-hearts, with tributes overflowing on social media for the man who represents the club in it’s truest sense. He is Mr Liverpool.
Although nothing is confirmed yet, but from Gerrard’s own statements, we get a hint that he is likely to play in the MLS.
“Liverpool Football Club has been such a huge part of all our lives for so long and saying goodbye is going to be difficult, but I feel it’s something that’s in the best interests of all involved, including my family and the club. I’m going to carry on playing and although I can’t confirm at this stage where that will be, I can say it will be somewhere that means I won’t be playing for a competing club and will not therefore be lining up against Liverpool; that is something I could never contemplate.
“My decision is completely based on my wish to experience something different in my career and life and I also want to make sure that I have no regrets when my playing career is eventually over.
Liverpool hierarchy mentioned yesterday that they like to see Gerrard returning back at the club at some capacity. He is completing his coaching badges and in future could serve the club as a manager or an important coaching member.
“Steven will always have a part to play for this club, as and when the time comes that he wishes to return,” read a joint statement from principal owner John W Henry and chairman Tom Werner.
However, Chris Bascombe of The Telegraph says, Liverpool are already exploring the opportunities of taking him back on loan next January.
The 34-year-old has decided to take his family to America where he will feature in the second half of the season for the MLS side. In January, MLS players usually go out on loan to regain their fitnesses and Liverpool are exploring that option to bring Gerrard on a short term basis.
Such moves are not uncommon for the Premier League clubs. Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger re-signed club legend Thierry Henry on a short term loan and Brendan Rodgers (provided he stays) might exercise that option as well.
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