Cape Town - Former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard announced his retirement from professional football on Thursday at the age of 36, calling time on an emblematic career.
Gerrard spent 17 years at his home-town club Liverpool, 12 as captain, and won nine honours including the 2005 Champions League before finishing his career with an 18-month stint at LA Galaxy.
Since his announcement, tributes have flooded in from former team-mates and players with many hailing Gerrard as Liverpool's best ever player.
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Greatness. pic.twitter.com/A4ujsQAZeI
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 24, 2016
How would Steven Gerrard like to be remembered?
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 24, 2016
More: https://t.co/Fe1HoX5599 pic.twitter.com/UR8HcmANdM
YNWA #StevenGerrard pic.twitter.com/8YcfN5OJVL
— Luis Suarez (@LuisSuarez9) November 24, 2016
We were rivals and we lived unforgettable finals. Steven Gerrard congratulations on your incredible career. pic.twitter.com/Ux0wK0ZBCE
— Kaka (@KAKA) November 24, 2016
I've always said I would have loved to play with this man Steven Gerrard. What a legend and what a career. #Respect #Leader pic.twitter.com/ZcKWLjpoE9
— Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) November 24, 2016
Sad day for football when a legendary figure like Stevie Gerrard retires from the game. The good news is more nights like this! #legend pic.twitter.com/JBPnPl5lWf
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) November 24, 2016