Gerrard was pleased with what he declared a ‘magical’ day at Anfield on Sunday afternoon
In a day that saw the likes of Luis Suarez, Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Thierry Henry, Didier Drogba, and Pepe Reina grace Anfield, over 44,900 got a chance to see their current, and former, heroes. With many getting a first, and perhaps last, glimpse of Luis Suarez and Fernando Torres paired together up front.
But much of the focus of the day was on Steven Gerrard. The current Liverpool captain was one of the charity side’s captains for the day and, with him having only around 10 games remaining of his Liverpool career, it was a farewell of sorts for the Reds’ legend.
It was quite the send-off as well for Gerrard, who had a good match and netted two penalties for his side in the process. Speaking to Liverpoolfc.com following the match, Gerrard said: “It’s been absolutely brilliant, I think, first and foremost, the charities involved will have done extremely well [thanks to] the full house.
“But that’s no surprise. We know our supporters – when it’s for a good cause, they always come and support. It’s been terrific. It’s just been absolutely magical and I’ve loved every minute of it.
“The game was [played at] a good pace. Everyone enjoyed it. There were no injuries. The hairs on my neck were standing up all the way through the game.
“Just to play with some ex-players and to be at Anfield one more time with them was a fantastic occasion. Today has given them the chance to sample the atmosphere one more time and to say their goodbyes properly, because sometimes you don’t get a chance.
“Today, first and foremost, was all about charity, but after that, it was a chance for some big, big players, who have contributed really well throughout their careers here, to come and say ‘bye’ to these terrific fans.”
The money raised will simply be the icing on the cake after a superb day at Anfield that fans in attendance will remember for years to come.
