Liverpool fans have made a signing in the winter window and it is great news as Steven Gerrard is to take up a coaching role at the club. The legendary midfielder will be working at the academy from next month, according to the club’s official website, and will also be working with a range of age groups at the club.
Gerrard did state a bit about the move and was quoted as saying: “This is the right option at the right time.”
The Liverpool star had retired from the game of football after finishing his career with the LA Galaxy and will also be looking to pick up some coaching badges as he looks to train and help develop the next batch of youngsters.
“It feels like completing the circle,” added the former Liverpool captain who won the 2005 UEFA Champions League in incredible circumstances.
“I’m returning to the place where professionally it all began. However, this isn’t a decision based on emotion – it’s about what I can offer and contribute to Liverpool.
“I don’t think I need to explain to people what this football club means to me, but when I knew coming back was a serious option I wanted to make sure it was a substantive role and a role in which I could really help the organisation.”
The Englishman also added that he had met Alex Inglethorpe from the academy.
“Meeting with Alex Inglethorpe, seeing the work they are currently doing and want to do in the future at Kirkby, it just felt right. The right option at the right time, for all parties involved.
“This gives me a great opportunity to learn and develop as a coach, while at the same time offering my knowledge, ideas and experience to the young players at an important period of their development.”
Although Gerrard never won the Premier League with the Reds, many believe that he is one of the greatest players from the modern era. An all-around midfielder, the Englishman could play in almost any role and even played as a right-back in the 2005 Champions League final.
The 36-year-old remains as the only player in the history of the game to have score in the finals of the FA Cup, League Cup, Champions League and UEFA Cup.
Axel Inglethorpe was also pleased with the signing and hopes that the Liverpool legend joining will
Academy director Alex Inglethorpe believes the Academy staff and players will benefit massively from having Gerrard on board.
He said: “If I was to pick one individual who embodies the characteristics and values we are looking to instill into our organisation at Kirkby it would be Steven Gerrard.
“For him to have been so enthusiastic about being part of what we are looking to do is simply great news for everyone connected to the club.
“I don’t think it would surprise anyone to know that Steven has had a host of great options, in terms of what to do next in his career, including playing, management and coaching. But it’s been evident from the first meeting with him that his heart and head belongs here.
“He has shown great humility in making it clear from the outset he wants a role where he can contribute to Liverpool. It’s typical of him that his priority has been defining the role so it helps the club ahead of himself.
“He has expressed a desire to learn from us and manage a young team. The benefits to us will be immense. This is a substantial role and one which makes the Academy and the club in general stronger and better.”
This certainly comes as a shock as many expected Gerrard to pick up coaching badges taking up another job. A few months ago, he was offered the MK Dons roles but he refused to take that up and then was in the running for the Swansea job.
This does seem as a great move and hopefully in a few years we could see Gerrard leading the side out from the touchline and maybe even to a Premier League title.
