London: Almost seventeen years after making his debut there, Steven Gerrard will play at Anfield for the final time on Saturday when Liverpool entertain Crystal Palace in the Premier League. His last game before he leaves for the Los Angeles Galaxy may yet occur at Stoke City on the season’s final day, but with Liverpool realistically unable to qualify for the Champions League and Palace long safe from relegation, Saturday’s match will serve as his farewell party.
After 708 appearances, 185 goals, 10 trophies and innumerable moments of drama, it will be an occasion of unique poignancy, and the 34-year-old midfielder knows it will be difficult to keep his emotions in check. “I’m really looking forward to the game. I want to win my last game at Anfield. It will be a bonus if I can get on the score-sheet,” he said.
“But once the game finishes and I say goodbye to the fans that are here — and I know it’s being televised, so it’s a good chance for me to say goodbye to the fans worldwide as well — it will be emotional, not just for me, for my family,” he added.
