When Steven Gerrard left Liverpool, he received tributes from some of the world’s best players. However, it was Lucas Leiva’s gesture that made him tearful. This happened on a post-season trip to Dubai, after Gerrard had ended his 17 years playing for the first team. Lucas, who had moved to Merseyside in 2007, had shared the pitch with Gerrard 186 times over the course of eight years for Liverpool. The two had an emotional embrace in a hotel room after the Brazilian knocked on his captain’s door.
In his 2016 book, My Story, Gerrard recalled the events that took place shortly after his last match, against Stoke. Lucas presented Gerrard with a silver salver with words inscribed on the plate. The words read: “We often hear the expression there will never be another. In your case, my friend, it is most definitely the case. A captain, leader and a legend in every sense of the word. Every moment I have spent on the pitch with you has been a privilege. The very best to you and your family with all your future endeavours – Lucas Leiva.” Gerrard remembered how he reacted to the gesture, saying that he “just about held it together while Lucas quietly watched me read his words” and that they hugged it out before he was overcome with emotion once Lucas left.
Nearly eight years later, Gerrard had kind words for his former teammate when Lucas was forced to retire due to a heart problem. He wrote: “A pleasure to share the dressing room with you, great memories. Enjoy retirement and see you at the charity games! Good luck amigo.” It is clear to see that there is a strong bond between the two players who are both loved by fans, but often for different reasons.