Steven Gerrard has announced this morning he will be leaving Liverpool at the end of this season. The midfielder, who turns 35 in May, has been with the Reds since the age of eight and even though he was offered a new deal to extend his contract beyond the summer he has chosen to seek a new challenge.

"This has been the toughest decision of my life and one which both me and my family have agonised over for a good deal of time," he told liverpoolfc.com.

"I am making the announcement now so that the manager and the team are not distracted by stories or speculation about my future.

"I'm going to carry on playing and although I can't confirm at this stage where that will be, I can say it will be somewhere that means I won't be playing for a competing club and will not therefore be lining up against Liverpool - that is something I could never contemplate."

Gerrard has been linked with a move to Major League Soccer for some time and a move to the United States would appeal to him and his family but there is also reported to be interest from the Middle East.

"My decision is completely based on my wish to experience something different in my career and life and I also want to make sure that I have no regrets when my playing career is eventually over," he added.

"I can't thank Brendan (Rodgers), the owners and everyone at the club enough for how they've handled this and I am leaving on great terms.

"Also, I would like to thank my team-mates and all the staff for their help and continued support.

"It is a very special place to be part of. It is my sincere hope and wish that one day I can return to serve Liverpool again, in whatever capacity best helps the club.

"One point that is important to make is that from now until the last kick of the last game of the season, I will be as fully committed to the team as I ever have been and giving everything I have to help Liverpool win games.

"My final message is for the people who make Liverpool Football Club the greatest in the world - the supporters.

"It has been a privilege to represent you, as a player and as captain.

"I have cherished every second of it and it is my sincere wish to finish this season and my Liverpool career on a high."