'The tributes to Stevie speak volumes - and are fully deserved'
As he watched tributes from around the world acknowledge Steven Gerrard's retirement, Robbie Fowler was struck by the sheer scale of respect for his 'phenomenal' career.
The legendary former Liverpool captain, who represented the first team for 17 years and clocked up more than 700 appearances, confirmed the decision to bring an end to his playing days on Thursday morning.
It wasn’t long before a wide range of ex-teammates, opponents, friends and clubs offered their special words of appreciation for a man who gave everything in the pursuit of glory for the Reds and England.
Gerrard claimed seven major trophies with his boyhood side, lifting the Champions League, FA Cup and League Cup himself as skipper.
And Fowler believes the plaudits that have been pouring in for the midfielder are more than justified, given the standards he reached.
“Steven’s career has been phenomenal, for what he has achieved and for what he has won individually and as a team,” he told Liverpoolfc.com.
“At times, he carried the Liverpool team. [He was] a fantastic player and we wish him all the very best with what he does next.
“He has been a phenomenal player and deserves every accolade he gets.
“You look at the people who are putting stuff out on social media – all the great players and great clubs are putting stuff about him. That speaks volumes and it’s fully, fully deserved.”