At the tender age of 9 young Steven Gerrard joined the Liverpool FC youth academy after being spotted by Liverpool scouts playing for his hometown team, Whiston Juniors. He had trials for a few different clubs including Manchester Utd but eventually signed his first professional contract with Liverpool in 1997.
In his first season he made 13 appearances, often looking out of his depth and nervous. It wasn't until the 2000 - 01 season that Gerrard made a real impact, he scored 10 goals and contributed to the team winning the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup. After a trophyless season during 2003 - 04, Gerrard was linked with a move to Chelsea. He finally turned down the £20 million move and decided to stay at Anfield under new coach Rafa Benitez.
Chelsea FC
Benitez built the strong new Liverpool squad that reached the finals of the Champions League in 2005 against AC Milan. Liverpool had a shocking first half and were 3-0 down, only to turn the scoreline around during six minutes of the second half. Gerrard scored one of the goals and was a huge influence throughout the match. Liverpool eventually won the game on penalties and Gerrard won Man Of The Match. Gerrard turned down another move to Chelsea that summer, even though he was offered £100,000 a week.
In 2006 Gerrard became the first Liverpool player since John Barnes to win the PFA Player Of The Year and scored twice in the FA Cup final against West Ham Utd. He made his 300th Premier League appearance for the club in 2008 and scored the opening goal against Blackburn Rovers. in 2009, Gerrrard was named as The Football Writers Association Player Of The Year.
He continues to play for Liverpool and is currently captain of England. Steven Gerrard is a true Liverpool FC legend.
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