Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has called his decision to leave the club “the toughest” of his life.
The 34-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, joined the Reds aged nine and has played 695 games in all competitions, scoring 180 goals.
“This has been the toughest decision of my life, one both me and my family have agonised over for a good deal of time,” said the ex-England midfielder.
Gerrard added he would continue playing, but not in the Premier League.
He continued: “I won’t be playing for a competing club and will not therefore be lining up against Liverpool – that is something I could never contemplate.
“My decision is completely based on my wish to experience something different in my career and life and I also want to make sure that I have no regrets when my playing career is eventually over.
“From now until the last kick of the last game of the season, I will be as fully committed to the team as I ever have been and giving everything I have to help Liverpool win games.”
