Reports that Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has opened talks with the club over a new contract will come as no surprise to the Reds' loyal fans.
Few players command such respect, or hold a position of similar responsibility, at any club around the World, let alone in England, and it's something that the club's American owners have been quick to realize.
Fenway Sports Group have made a conscious effort to impress the fans at Anfield since taking over from Tom Hicks and George Gillett on Merseyside, with the appointment of Kenny Dalglish following the sacking of Roy Hodgson an example of giving the fans what they want.
"I wasn't convinced when we arrived that Kenny should be back managing and I wanted things to work with the manager we inherited. But the fans knew much more than I did," admitted John W. Henry last month.
The fans also know, and firmly believe, that Gerrard remains crucial to any future success the club may have under the guidance of 'King Kenny'.
A product of the club's youth system, the 31-year-old made his debut for the Reds back in 1998, and has since helped the club claim two FA Cups, two League Cups, a UEFA Cup and the UEFA Champions League.
His position as a club legend is already well secured, but ending his career at Liverpool is something FSG are eager to make happen, even with the current run of injuries which have kept the central midfielder out for months at a time.
American sports clubs are traditionally quick to 'cut' players, particularly those suffering from injuries, in an effort to get as much back for the player as possible.
However, keeping Gerrard, whose current contract expires in 18 months, would easily provide Liverpool with the best value possible, given his close-knit affiliation to the supporters.
Having almost joined Chelsea on three occasions during Jose Mourinho's reign at Stamford Bridge, it now seems impossible to think of the 89-cap international plying his trade anywhere other than Anfield.
And, with the Daily Telegraph claiming a two-year extension is to be offered, it now seems a very realistic possibility that Gerrard's entire career will be solely spent at Liverpool.
That's what makes a legend.
No comments:
Post a Comment