Steven Gerrard has thanked Liverpool supporters for making a 'big difference' by raising a reported £1million from the skipper's testimonial match against Olympiacos on Saturday.

Anfield was sold out and packed for the pre-season friendly with the Greek outfit, with Kopites keen to pay tribute to the inspirational No.8 who has starred for the Reds for 15 years.

Funds raised by the testimonial fixture and subsequent gala dinner, in addition to other events taking place throughout the year, will be distributed to various charities via the Steven Gerrard Foundation.

"It was an amazing day. The reception 45,000 fans gave me at Anfield was unbelievable," Gerrard told the Liverpool Echo.

"I was blown away by the support. The atmosphere was great and it was emotional. I was holding back at times.

"To share it with my three little girls, family and close mates, who have followed me from when I was a young lad, was special.

"The fans have always been behind me from day one. I can't thank everyone enough for their generosity.

"The foundation will be able to use the money we've raised to help a lot of kids who are in bad situations. It will make a big difference

"My name is attached to the foundation but it's not just about me. There are some great people working for it.

"The testimonial had been a year in the planning and I'm very grateful to have had that network of support. It went perfectly."

Among the donations was a £100,000 pledge by Olympiacos president Evangelos Marinakis - a final gesture from a team who could not have been more helpful for the Reds skipper.

The 33-year-old added: "It was an amazing gesture and I'm very grateful.

"I need to give a huge thank-you to all the Olympiacos team and staff for coming over and giving us a good test. They were brilliant."