Gerrard signs new deal

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has agreed a two-year contract extension, the club announced today.

The 28-year-old had two years to run on his current deal but has committed to the club until 2013.

Manager Rafael Benitez told the club’s website: “This is fantastic news for the club.

“Steven has once again shown his commitment and it was an easy deal to agree. As soon as we offered him the option he said yes. There were no problems at all. He wants to stay for life.

“This deal sends out another clear message that we are moving forward as a club. To know we have a player of Steven’s quality with us for many more years is a great boost for the club and the fans.

“He is clearly a player who inspires those around him and even though he is playing very well at the moment, I still think his best years are ahead of him.”

The news came on the same day Gerrard denied being involved in a nightclub fight.

The Reds captain formally pleaded not guilty to affray when he appeared at Liverpool Crown Court.

Gerrard, 28, was accused of being part of a group that injured businessman Marcus McGee, 34, at the Lounge Inn, Southport, in the early hours of December 29 last year.

The trial was adjourned to July 20.