"It is great news for everyone in Liverpool," he said. "Steve is everything, a symbol for the team, and although nobody is indispensable we would have started the new campaign on the wrong foot.
"Gerrard is wanted by all and I do not believe that it was a question of money for all those involved. In the year I have been at Liverpool I have come to understand what is expected, in particular in the league.
"These last few days the team did not train with the same joy, but now I have noticed the spirit is back."