Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard welcomes Anfield redevelopment

Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has given his backing to the club's decision to redevelop Anfield rather than building a new stadium in Stanley Park.

Reds managing director Ian Ayre confirmed the plan today at Liverpool Town Hall, with the city's local authority revealing plans to regenerate the area around the stadium.

Liverpool City Council has secured a £25million grant from the government for the Anfield Village project, and plan to demolish a number of homes near the ground as part of the development to create space for the expansion of the stadium.

Gerrard took time out from preparing for England's World Cup qualifier in Poland tomorrow night to give his verdict on the news.

He said: "I'm really pleased. I've had some special occasions at Anfield and so have the club.

"If they are going to spend all that money on Anfield and improve it then fantastic. I'm very happy at that news.

"It is major news for the club. It has been on everyone's lips for a number of years now, would we move away from Anfield or reinvent Anfield?

"I've been like everyone, waiting for the verdict on that, and it looks like it is going to be Anfield which is great.

"A lot of history and important things have happened at Anfield and I think it is fantastic Liverpool are staying there."

PA