Former Liverpool chief Rick Parry has revealed that club legend Steven Gerrard was adamant on leaving for Chelsea at one time.

The former England international was a target for the Blues when Jose Mourinho was in charge, and he even handed in a transfer request.

"Way too close. It's quite interesting when you reflect on that time," Parry revealed when asked about the move.

"People frequently say who are the signings you are proudest of and who gave you the most pleasure. In many ways it was Steven and Carra - keeping players is as important as buying them.

"Clearly, Steven came very close (to leaving) twice. In fact on the second occasion we thought we had lost him. The chairman and I went to see him at Melwood and there was no changing his mind. He was adamant but, fortunately, he did change his mind."