Liverpool have offered captain Steven Gerrard a new contract, His current deal expires next summer and the 34-year-old is contemplating what his future holds.

Manager Brendan Rodgers confirmed the news on Monday and, like his captain, rubbished reports on Sunday that a rift had developed between the two men.

The Northern Irishman, who is under pressure following Liverpool's tough starts to the season, has made no secret of his desire to keep Gerrard at Anfield but he maintains there will be no pressure on the midfielder, who will be given maximum respect as his glittering career comes to a close.

Speaking about Gerrard ahead of Liverpool's Premier League trip to Leicester City on Tuesday, Rodgers said: 'He has been offered a contract here and that is where it is at.

'He deserves the utmost respect and deserves time to consider that. It is a big moment in his life to consider what he is going to do at this stage in his life.'

Liverpool currently pay Gerrard £120,00-per-week but finance will have nothing to do with whatever decision he will reach, according to Rodgers. The former England captain could start talking to foreign clubs in 31 days about joining them on a Bosman at the end of the season.

'There are many things he has to think about but it certainly won't be money,' said Rodgers. 'He deserves to think about where he is at in this moment.'

(dailymail.co.uk)

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