Steven Gerrard has admitted he considered moving to Chelsea because he felt Liverpool were a long way from being title contenders. The England midfielder was on the verge of a move to Stamford Bridge in 2005 and has been linked with the Blues since.

However, the 28-year-old remained at Anfield and has been instrumental as Liverpool have emerged as the main threat to Manchester United in the race for the Premier League title this season.

Gerrard said: “The reason the whole Chelsea thing came up was down to frustration that we were so far away from the title race. That’s why their interest maybe turned my head slightly.

“But I look back now and I’m really pleased I decided to stay because I’m part of a top team here that can be successful.”

As a Liverpool fan, Gerrard knows success at Anfield would have far more significance for him than winning trophies with another club.

“It would mean an awful lot more to be successful at Liverpool than it would at any other club,” Gerrard continued.

“Don’t get me wrong, I might have won more medals somewhere else but if I was to win the league here, along with a few more cups, that would mean a lot more than winning seven or eight trophies somewhere else.

“I can share it with my family, with the Liverpool supporters because I’ve been one of them all my life.”