London, Jul 21: Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has provided a major boost to the club by pledging to stay at Anfield, and said he cannot wait to play alongside new signing Joe Cole.
Skipper Gerrard, 30, returned to Melwood for pre-season training yesterday and put the record straight on his own plans.
He revealed how new boss Roy Hodgson convinced him to stay after his relationship with ex-chief Rafa Benitez unravelled last season, The Sun reports.
“I made it clear I needed to concentrate on the World Cup, then have a decent holiday with my family. I wanted the chance to meet Roy Hodgson and having done so, I’m very impressed with his plans,” Gerrard said.
“I’ve only returned to training today at Melwood with some of the other World Cup players but I can't wait for the new season to start,” he said.
Gerrard is also relishing the chance to play alongside England teammate Cole.
The Anfield hero played a key role in persuading the midfielder to leave London while they were together in South Africa.
“I have seen first hand just how good Joe is. He has proved his ability over many years, sometimes against us - so it’ll be fantastic to play alongside him in a red shirt for Liverpool,” Gerrard said.
“I’ve told him what a great club this is and I’m sure Joe’s the sort of exciting talent our fans will love to see. It’s a great signing for us,” he added.