Liverpool managing director Ian Ayre has cooled talk of a new deal for skipper Steven Gerrard.

The England skipper only agreed a new 24-month deal last summer and, although talks will undoubtedly take place, nothing has happened so far.

"No, absolutely not. It is not a discussion we have had," Ayre said when asked whether a new contract had been agreed.

"But it is not because it isn't a discussion we won't have. He is part of the heartbeat of this club and, as long as Steven wants to be here and we want him to be here, it won't be a difficult conversation, but it is not one we've had recently."