London, May 11 (IANS): Tears and cheers are guaranteed in just five days when hero-worshipped Steven Gerrard bids farewell to adoring fans at English football club Liverpool's final home game of the season at Anfield.
For what will be a packed-to-capacity stadium, many will be more interested in witnessing the end of an era on the hallowed turf, rather than the scoreline against middle-of-the-table Crystal Palace, reports Xinhua.
Liverpool draws its season to a close on May 24 with an away game against Stoke City. It ensures eyes will be focused on Anfield this Saturday to witness Gerrard saying his goodbyes on home territory.
A lucrative contract will see Gerrard jetting off to the United States to join Los Angeles Galaxy as his Liverpool contract comes to an end.
Liverpool's Sunday away clash here saw fans of Premier League champions Chelsea giving Gerrard a standing ovation as he walked on to their pitch at Stamford Bridge. But Liverpool captain said the high praise was short-lived.
"I was more happy with the ovation from the Liverpool fans. Chelsea fans had respect for a couple of seconds today but slaughtered me all game," he said.
The 34-years-old has suffered chants from Chelsea for some years after he spurned the opportunity to quit Anfield and sign for them. The midfielder said of the ovation: "It was a nice touch. I know they've absolutely murdered me for years because I never signed here. I've had great support from Liverpool fans - that's all that matters to me."
Gerrard had high praise for Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho, describing him as the 'best manager in the world'.
"I have huge respect for Mourinho. I would have signed for him on three occasions if I wasn't such a big Liverpool fan. He knew why I couldn't do it because I love Liverpool Football Club. It always means more when you win for your people," said Gerrardl.
In response Mourinho said Gerrard has been a "special" player, adding: "I'm so happy with the ovation. The negative song Chelsea fans sing for him is respect for an old, dear enemy that fought so much against us in every competition."
Gerrard scored during the away clash at Chelsea to make things square at 1-1 after Chelsea captain John Terry netted the ball just minutes after kick-off.
Back home in Liverpool, the grieving for the departing Gerrard has already started. One fan said: "Superstars with that kind of class and loyalty are a dying breed. My God are we going to miss you Stevie."
Liverpool born and bred, Gerrard emerged as a world star after joining the club's youth academy as a teenager, remaining until now as a one-team player. It will earn him a place in Liverpool's hall of fame alongside some of the club's greatest ever players.