Steven Gerrard on Luis Suarez: Liverpool captain says it has been an 'emotional day' after £75m sale of striker to Barcelona

Suarez was officially announced as a Barcelona player earlier today

Steven Gerrard posted an emotional farewell to Luis Suarez (Getty Images)

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has thanked Luis Suarez in an emotional statement released on Instagram.

The Liverpool captain said it had been an "emotional day" after the £75m sale of the 27-year-old to Barcelona.

Suarez arrived at Liverpool in January 2011 and scored 69 Premier League goals in 110 matches, including 30 last season to help guide the club back into the Champions League.

Gerrard posted: "On an emotional day for me would just like to say what a pleasure it has been playing with an amazing talent such as Luis.

"I would like to thank him for his outstanding contribution on the pitch during his time@liverpoolfc and to wish him and his family all the best on his new adventure in Spain. #lfclegend"

Suarez signed a five-year deal to join the Catalan club but said he leaves Anfield with a "heavy heart".

"It is with a heavy heart that I leave Liverpool for a new life and new challenges in Spain. Both me and my family have fallen in love with this club and with the city.

"But most of all I have fallen in love with the incredible fans. You have always supported me and we, as a family, will never forget it, we will always be Liverpool supporters.

Gerrard posted this to his Instagram account (Steven Gerrard/Instagram)

"I hope you can all understand why I have made this decision. This club did all they could to get me to stay, but playing and living in Spain, where my wife's family live, is a lifelong dream and ambition. I believe now the timing is right.

"Thank you again for some great moments and memories. You'll Never Walk Alone."

Suarez, who is out until October because of his bite on Italy defender Giorgio Chiellini, will be unveiled at the Nou Camp next week.

However, he might not be granted the usual fanfare major transfers are given, with his ban from "all football activity" preventing him from entering the pitch.

Suarez, who is not even allowed to train under the terms of his ban, may have to have his grand entrance take place in a conference room.