Steven Gerrard says it is going to be difficult cutting all ties with Liverpool at the end of the season but hopes to one day return to Anfield in some capacity.

Gerrard turned down the offer of a new one-year deal at Anfield in favour of a fresh challenge in Major League Soccer with the LA Galaxy and will head to the United States later in the year.

The England international has been with Liverpool since the age of nine and says an emotional few weeks are in store as he brings the curtain down on career at Anfield.

“It’s going to be difficult to let go,” he said. “It’s exciting to know I will be trying something different, playing in another league and getting to see a lot of a great country like America.

“At the same time, I’m emotional and I know these final few weeks will be tough.

“I just don’t know what is going to happen after my last game at Anfield against Crystal Palace.

“All I know is it will be a hugely emotional day for me when my Liverpool career comes to an end after so long.

“My relationship with Liverpool doesn’t end though. I’m hoping I’ll return to the club in some capacity one day.

“If that’s not to be, then I’ll always come back as a supporter.”

There was a very good chance that Gerrard would become a bit-part player with the Reds had he stayed and that is something he did not want.

“I didn’t feel I’d enjoy it as much at Liverpool if I became a squad player or a bit-part player,” he added.

“I still have the same attitude and hunger that I’ve always had. I want to play games from the start and win.

“I still want to challenge for honours. All of that combined means LA Galaxy is the ideal place for the next part of my career.”