Born on Merseyside, Liverpool on 30th May 1980 no-one would ever have guessed that Steven Gerrard would become one of the greatest players ever to pull on a Liverpool jersey. Gerrard is the captain of Liverpool and has become an integral part of the first team since making his debut on 30th November 1998.
Eager to stake a place in the first team during the 1999-200 season under Gerard Houllier Gerrard proved himself worthy only to suffer a set-back when he was overcome with back problems. Despite these injuries and claims that Gerrard would never play a full season for Liverpool he fought back to recover and put his injuries behind him.
The 2000-2001 season saw Gerrard put all injury worries behind him lifting his first majors trophies for the club in the form of the League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup. To cap a wonder season Gerrard was named as PFA Young Player of the Year.
Following the end of the 2001 season Gerrard’s confidence in his abilities grew and he became an increasingly influential player for Liverpool gaining valuable experience. Despite minor setbacks and a loss of confidence Gerrard rallied to become the on-field leader of Liverpool by the start of 2003. It came as no surprise when he was handed the captain’s armband, in the hope that he would inspire his teammates to improve their performances.
Despite Gerrard excelling in the role of captain Liverpool failed to lift any major trophies and there was a distinct lack of optimism about Liverpool’s future prospects under Houllier. It was suggested that Gerrard may have to move away from Anfield in order to achieve his potential but with the appointment of Rafael Benitez Gerrard decided to stay with the club and see what the new manager could do.
His trust was well placed as Gerrard became the second youngest captain ever to lift the European Cup as Liverpool defeated AC Milan in the 2005 Champion’s League Final. He was also named UEFA’s MVP for the 2004-2005 Champion’s League season. Things got even better for Gerrard when he was voted PFA player of the year in 2006. Under Gerrard's leadership, Liverpool have secured their place in the 2007 Champion’s League Final against AC Milan.
Steven Gerrard plays for England and played in the 2004 European Championship and 2006 World Cup. Despite lifting no major honours with England Gerrard has secured his place in the starting 11 with strong performances and was named Vice-Captain by Steve McClaren after David Beckham resigned the post.
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