Gerrard urged to stay by ex-England man

Rumours were abound that Gerrard could be on the move next Summer, and with the midfielder admitting himself that the clubs position would need to improve if he was to stay on a long term basis, it now seems possible that the influential club captain could be on the move in the next year or two.

But Venables said the recent events against Olympiakos should make Gerrard concentrate on his future at Anfield.

He said: "That incredible comeback in midweek keeps them in the Champions League and that is why Steven Gerrard, one of the best midfielders in Europe, should stay at Anfield, and forget about any thoughts of moving away."

He added: "Sure, Gerrard is hungry for silverware. His talent deserves to be recognised with a Premiership winners' medal or two and maybe even a European Cup success. You also can completely understand his fears about time, his frustration that he is approaching his peak years and success is still not quite within reach."

Venables continued: "He (Gerrard) can turn it around for Liverpool. Yes, that's a lot of pressure for one man. But with him, Rafael Benitez can bring success back to Anfield. Stevie could take the easy option and move to Chelsea, Real Madrid or Manchester United and no doubt his efforts would be rewarded with silverware. But how much more satisfying would it be to bring that success to a club he clearly loves?"

"Anyone who doubted that just had to watch his performance on Wednesday. He was ready to bust a gut for Liverpool and dragged them back from the brink by the scruff of the neck. Gerrard is the Liverpool engine and I just hope he remains patient, maybe for a season or two, to be part of the team that will undoubtedly climb back towards the summit," he added.