Gerrard will play a waiting game on new contract, says Spackman

FORMER Liverpool midfielder Nigel Spackman believes Steven Gerrard will wait until the end of next season before deciding whether to commit his long-term future to the club.

Gerrard’s current deal expires in June 2007 but Liverpool are keen to sign him to an improved contract as he has been linked with a move to Real Madrid and another of Spackman’s former clubs, Chelsea.

Reds chief executive Rick Parry believes that it is only a matter of time before the England midfielder signs a new contract but Spackman is far from convinced.

He feels Gerrard, 25, will not sign any deal until he sees conclusive proof this season that Rafael Benitez’s men are closing the gap on Manchester United, Arsenal and Chelsea in the Barclays Premiership.

“I don’t think he will end up signing a new deal,” Spackman told the Press Association.

“He’s got two years left on his contract and I think he will end up staying this season and waiting to see how the year progresses.

“You have to respect his decision because he’s still under contract, he still wants to play for Liverpool and he is an inspiration to the side.

“He has just won the Champions League, which was absolutely fantastic, but sometimes in those situations, you need to let the dust settle and see where your long-term future lies.

“His relationship with Xabi Alonso in the middle of the park will only get better but, ultimately, Steven has got to do what he feels is best for him.”

Before committing himself, Gerrard is keen to see proof that Benitez is to bolster his squad, not only to increase the chances of retaining their European title but also to make a serious challenge in the Barclays Premiership.

Spanish goalkeeper Jose Reina is believed to have agreed a move to Anfield and Feyenoord striker Dirk Kuyt is another Benitez transfer target.

Spackman, who was brought to Anfield from Chelsea by Kenny Dalglish in February 1987 for £400,000 before winning a Championship medal in 1988, believes the personnel Benitez attracts to Liverpool is crucial to Gerrard’s decision.

He added: “Steven must now decide whether he wants to stay at Liverpool and try to help them win the Premiership. But if he doesn’t see the right type of players coming in to Liverpool, then that will be at the back of his mind. He will be saying to himself, ‘In the near future, are we actually going to be good enough to compete with Chelsea, Manchester United and Arsenal?’