Gerrard ready to resume Lampard rivalry in MLS

Posted Wednesday, July 08, 2015 by Goal.com

After leaving Liverpool, the midfielder says at his official unveiling as an LA Galaxy player that he is looking forward to testing himself against his old England team-mate

New LA Galaxy signing Steven Gerrard says that he is ready to face former England colleague Frank Lampard as both of them complete their moves to Major League Soccer.

The Liverpool legend was officially unveiled by the Galaxy on Tuesday after his summer switch from Anfield, with his longtime international team-mate finally reporting for duty with New York City FC after a year on loan at Manchester City.

The two midfielders are soon to rekindle their rivalry in MLS and Gerrard is looking forward to the competition.

"As a player I love individual rivalries and team rivalries; I've been used to them throughout my career," Gerrard told reporters when asked about taking on Lampard.

"For me, it's about me and my team. We feel we're capable of competing against anyone in this league and I feel capable of competing against anyone. I'm ready to face Frank and all the other midfielders."

The 35-year-old follows in the footsteps of ex-England captain David Beckham in joining the Californian club, as well as American star Landon Donovan, and he is keen to live up to their status.

"I think it's exciting to be a member of the Galaxy," Gerrard replied when asked about the pair. "You mentioned two names in David Beckham and Landon Donovan who contributed greatly to the club. If I can follow in their footsteps, I'll be very happy.

"David's a hero of mine, someone I was lucky to play with. He's a fantastic guy and footballer, someone I leaned on for advice before coming here.

"Landon, he was at Everton so was the enemy for short periods of time; it'll be good to get feedback off him. He's a legend here. I've looked back at his games here and hopefully I can follow in his footsteps.

"The level is good here," he continued. "We have terrific players. I'm coming into a good team, they are the champions. I hope I can add a bit to that.

"I feel I can help [with] my experience in the game; we have a young squad. It's my job along with [former Liverpool team-mate] Robbie Keane and a few others to help the young guys improve.

"After one or two conversations, I knew it was the place for me. Moving forward, it's about success. I want to win. If anyone thinks I'm here for a holiday or one last pay day, they'll be proved wrong very soon."

On his decision to sign for the Galaxy over several other possibilities, the Reds icon replied: "What struck me was how aggressive the club were; it made me feel important and wanted.

"I had options to stay in the Premier League and around Europe [but] I didn't want to play against Liverpool. I love Liverpool but I needed a new challenge... I didn't want to become a squad player or sub for the club I love.

"My team-mates, the club... I love Liverpool the city. I will miss it at times but I'm so excited to be here. Everyone knows Liverpool will be in my heart but it'll be about fighting for a new badge.

"I've heard from Brendan [Rodgers], the staff and players. I have a wonderful relationship with them all. I'll see them in the winter and I'll watch them on television."