Gerrard: Why we must keep Suarez

When Steven Gerrard made his league debut in November, 1998, Liverpool were a club in transition, trying to recapture the glory days of two decades ruling English and European football.

As he prepares for his testimonial against Olympiakos today, the midfielder is prepared to admit the very future of an international icon is in the balance, as the Luis Suarez saga hangs over everyone at Anfield.

Fifteen years on from what was an inconspicuous introduction — a one-minute appearance as a substitute for Vegard Heggem against Blackburn — Gerrard is these days a club legend with a glittering trophy haul that includes a Champions League, two FA Cups, three League Cups, a Uefa Cup and two Super Cups.