Steven Gerrard Free to Listen to Rival Offers as Contract Talks Remain Stalled

With no update to give on the contract situation of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers admitted that the 34-year old was free to listen to offers from rival clubs.

Despite delaying it much longer than expected, the club has confirmed that a new deal for the long serving midfielder has been on the table since November, but the Liverpool legend has yet to put pen to paper. Gerrard has been linked with a host of clubs who are reportedly interested in securing his services, leaving the boss no choice but to concede that the Reds talisman could be weighing his options. “I have got a great relationship and communication with Steven so we understand exactly the position,” said the Northern Irishman. “I think he has earned that respect if he does [talk to anyone].”

Gerrard has seen his time on the pitch reduced drastically this season, and with the Reds making a poor start to the campaign, rumours have emerged of a rift between the two — something that was quickly talked down by both parties. Regardless, with the skipper believing that he has a few good years left in him, a switch to another league could very well be on the cards if he doesn’t extend his Anfield deal with a host of Major League Soccer teams apparently lining up for his signature.

“He will be straight back in. He’s a wonderful player and a wonderful servant to this football club. From my time here he has been brilliant for me. I have just got to manage his games” said Rodgers when asked if the captain will feature against Leicester City later today. “When I came in here 2½ years ago, everyone talked about whether he could play my type of football and were his legs gone? Arguably he could have been the player of the year last year. He understands my situation of picking the best team and making it fresh as often as we can. He missed out the other night but he will play against Leicester.”