Steven Gerrard: David Beckham a factor in LA Galaxy move
Last updated on .From the section Football
Steven Gerrard says former England team-mate David Beckham was a key factor in his move to LA Galaxy.
Beckham spent five years in Los Angeles and won the MLS Cup in his final match with them in December 2012.
Gerrard, 35, is set to make his debut in a friendly against Mexican side Club America on Saturday.
"David is a hero of mine, a fantastic guy, a wonderful footballer, certainly someone I leaned on for advice before I decided to come here," he said.
Having rejected a one-year deal last year, Gerrard announced in January that he would be leaving his boyhood club Liverpool at the end of last season and confirmed a move to Galaxy.
Gerrard will wear his familiar number eight shirt at Galaxy, where he will link up again with former Liverpool team-mate Robbie Keane, who has played for the LA side since 2011.
"It was very nice to have Robbie around, he introduced me to the players and he also lent me some factor 50 as well so I didn't burn," Gerrard quipped at a news conference. "It felt like I was coming to a new school but thanks to my team-mates for making me feel welcome.
"I had options to stay in the Premier League, options around Europe but I didn't want to compete against Liverpool.
"I love Liverpool Football Club and I always will do, I'm still a fan to this day but I needed a fresh challenge, I didn't want to become a squad player for the club that I love.
"It's all about success, I've come here to win, if there is anyone who thinks I came here for a holiday and a last pay cheque they'll be proved wrong very soon."