Farewell My Favourite Number 8, Stevie G

Some say that there are very few moments in life that a man is allowed to cry. One could be seeing the first scratch on your new Lamborghini or when your football idol decides to retire. The latter seems to be the cause of my emotional wreck that I had to succumb to last weekend.

Steven Gerrard, or “Stevie” has been part of my growing up. He is partly responsible for my childhood spendthrift habit of spending every penny I saved on Liverpool football jerseys and leaving my late father and I at each other’s throat after every Liverpool – Man Yoo match. I dream that I can be like Stevie, I dream that I can swirl that ball over the wall into the top corner, I dream that I can drill that thunderous shot from 30 yards out, I dream that can produce that pin-point pass from half of the field.

Stevie gives the rhythm to my heart. And perhaps football should never be for the faint-hearted. Why? Because football, unlike that lifeless stodgy cricket, gives that adrenaline-rush a man needs, probably even more than sex.  It is not just the skills that Stevie relentlessly displays, but the leadership that he brings.  His mere presence swiftly presses everyone to pull up their socks. His mere presence swiftly presses everyone to pull up their socks. I could have sworn that my heart was about to jump out of my chest during the FA Cup 2000 and Champions League Finals 2004/2005.   

Loyalty in football is like sheep running in packs when the tigers are chasing. You either live and die with the herd or brake away and be every man for himself. Stevie decided to stay with the pack, a rare trait seen in todays football culture. And for this reason, the fans appreciate his sacrifices. Yes, he could have left for other clubs at his peak and win more titles. He may not win as many trophies one could wish for, but he has won many hearts – especially the Kopites. As in marriage, polygamous may win you bragging rights, but monogamy has its own supporters.

So long Steven Gerrard, my favourite no. 8. Rest assured that Anfield will always have his arms wide open for you. You are an epitome of true leadership and inspiration.