In an exclusive interview with Gary Lineker on BT Sports, Steven Gerrard announced his retirement from playing football, calling the curtains on an illustrious 19 year career.

Gerrard was Liverpool's longest-ever serving captain and made 710 appearances for his boyhood club, inspiring them to to their famous Champions League final victory over AC Milan in 2005 while also helping the Reds win the FA Cup twice (2001, 2006), the League Cup on three occasions (2001, 2003, 2012) and the UEFA Cup once (2001) during an 18-year association with the club.

He won 114 caps for England,played in six major tournaments and captained England at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups as well as the 2012 European Championships.

Gerrard is widely regarded as one of England's greatest ever players and one of the best midfielders football has ever seen.

On his plans for the future, Gerrard said:

"I am excited about the future and feel I still have a lot to offer the game, in whatever capacity that may be. I am currently taking my time to consider a number of options and will make an announcement with regards to the next stage of my career very soon."

Story by Daraja Mutari