Steven Gerrard to LA Galaxy: MLS side announce signing of Liverpool captain

Gerrard says he is going to 'compete for trophies' at his new club

(GETTY IMAGES)

The Los Angeles Galaxy have officially announced the signing of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Gerrard, 34, shocked football last week when he announced he would be leaving the only club he's ever played for to go and play in the US.

Gerrard was widely reported to have agreed a £6million, 18-month deal with the Galaxy, though it has only been made official today.

"I’m very excited to begin the next chapter of my career in the United States with LA Galaxy," Gerrard told the LA Galaxy website.

"The Galaxy are the most successful club in Major League Soccer history and I am looking forward to competing for more championships in the years to come. My discussions with Bruce Arena and Chris Klein were extremely positive and the future of the team is very bright.

"I am committed to helping the LA Galaxy compete for trophies and to having an impact in Los Angeles and I will give my all for the club. In the meantime, I will continue to give everything for Liverpool for the remainder of this season before joining up with the Galaxy."

Gerrard earlier admitted that he "would have signed" a deal to stay at Liverpool had one been offered in the summer.

"We’re very pleased to acquire a player of Steven’s caliber, experience and character," LA Galaxy head coach and GM Bruce Arena said.

"He is one of the most decorated players in the world and will join our team with a wealth of success playing at the highest level of the sport. Steven will be an excellent example to our young players and we’re excited to add him and his leadership to an already talented roster."

Gerrard has played 696 matches for the Reds after making his debut in November 1998. He has won the FA Cup twice, the League Cup three times, the Champions League in 2005 and the UEFA Cup in 2001 - he has not won the Premier League, however.

After Landon Donovan retired, Gerrard will become the third designated player on the Galaxy, along with former team-mate and MLS Most Valuable Player Robbie Keane and centre-back Omar Gonzalez.