Steven Gerrard has officially retired from professional football, bringing an end to a successful career for both club and country.
The Liverpool legend announced his retirement today, saying that he was “thankful for each and every moment of my time at Liverpool, England and LA Galaxy, adding: “I fulfilled my childhood dream by pulling on the famous red shirt of Liverpool.” The former England captain is now looking towards becoming a coach, with him currently working towards his Uefa A coaching licence. The 36-year-old took to the pitch 710 times for Liverpool, accumulating nine trophies, while earning 114 caps for the England national team.
Although Gerrard’s retirement had been expected, with the man himself having discussed the possibility of hanging up his boots after an underwhelming move to the MLS, the footballing world has still joined together to share their memories of the Scouser’s best moments on the pitch, congratulating him on his lengthy career. Former Liverpool teammateDirk Kuyt branded him the “best [he’s] ever worked with,” while Gary Lineker called him “a giant of our game”.
See the best reactions from the footballing world across social media below:
Steven Gerrard has retired. A giant of our game. A Liverpool & England great. Chuffed to do his farewell interview: https://t.co/o9FjfS08d4
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) November 24, 2016
5️⃣0️⃣4️⃣ #PL matches
1️⃣2️⃣0️⃣ #PL goals
1️⃣ Steven GerrardThe @LFC legend through the ages with @ToppsMerlin… pic.twitter.com/sxDyDtnsT1
— Premier League (@premierleague) November 24, 2016
Thanks for the memories Steven Gerrard. #legend https://t.co/iZqqg42E2s
— Wembley Stadium (@wembleystadium) November 24, 2016
Congratulations to Steven Gerrard on a fantastic career. I wish him all the best for the future wherever he goes, one of Liverpools best
— ROY EVANS (@Roy_Evo) November 24, 2016
Steven Gerrard, the best I’ve ever played with, thanks for all the great memories, mate! #legend #YNWA pic.twitter.com/ZiOdWcnY0o
— Dirk Kuyt (@Kuyt) November 24, 2016
Congratulations Steven gerrard incredible career club and country,privilege to have played with and against you,enjoy some golf ⛳️ now
— Chris Kirkland (@ChrisKirkland43) November 24, 2016
Hoy anuncia que se retira una leyenda del fútbol! Un líder dentro y fuera del campo, enorme Steven Gerrard! pic.twitter.com/CjX3dn2bLB
— Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) November 24, 2016
Image Credit: Stu Forster / Getty Images