Steven Gerrard set for new Liverpool contract, confirms Brendan Rodgers

May 4, 2014
This Is Anfield

Liverpool intend to offer captain Steven Gerrard a new deal in the summer, Brendan Rodgers has told the Liverpool Echo.

LONDON, ENGLAND - Wednesday, February 12, 2014: Liverpool's captain Steven Gerrard celebrates scoring the third goal against Fulham from the penalty spot during the Premiership match at Craven Cottage. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda) — Steven Gerrard celebrates scoring the third goal against Fulham from the penalty spot during the Premier League match at Craven Cottage. (Pic by David Rawcliffe/Propaganda)

The 33-year-old has enjoyed a rejuvenated season, leading the Reds on their Premier League title challenge, that could still end in glory, despite Manchester City’s 3-2 win at Everton on Saturday.

Rodgers sees Gerrard as an integral part of the team and the club’s progression going forward as he prepares a squad capable of challenging in the Premier League and Champions League next season.

The Liverpool Echo’s James Pearce writes:

Liverpool intend to offer him a 12-month extension to keep him at Anfield until his 36th birthday in 2016.

“Steven will be one we look to get a contract to in the summer,” Rodgers told the newspaper. “With a year to go, it’s something we will address.

“I believe Steven will play beyond 2015. He is a player who has really shown his qualities this season.

“Come the summer, he will still only be 34. Looking towards the future, I still think he’s going to be a key part of our squad.”

Rodgers also spoke about Gerrard adapting to his new role in the team as a deep lying central midfielder, dropping back into defensive responsibilities.

“He has dropped into a new position and played it seamlessly,” the Northern Irishman added. “His intelligence in the game is second to none. He is improving all the time.

“It’s one where he has been brilliant for me as a captain and as a player this season and I would like that to continue.

“Most clubs, especially bigger clubs, recognise now that once a player gets over a certain age you have to look at a contract’s duration.

“But for me Steven still has so much to offer and I really want him beside me here working on the field.”

Rodgers, Gerrard and Liverpool are looking towards Monday night’s Premier League encounter with Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

A draw would be enough to put the Reds top of the table again, after Man City knocked them off top spot on Saturday, but a win would keep up the pressure on Manuel Pellegrini’s men.