Speculation surrounding Steven Gerrard's possible return to Merseyside appears to have eased, despite his LA Galaxy team getting knocked out of the MLS play-offs.
Galaxy suffered heartache after losinga penalty shoot-out to Colorado Rapids last Sunday. Whilst Gerrard converted his penalty, former Premier League stars Ashley Cole and Giovanni Dos Santos failed to score theirs, which means that LA Galaxy's season is officially over.
WATCH: Tim Howard saves Ashley Cole penalty & wildly celebrates as LA Galaxy exit MLS Cup: https://t.co/xX4P8G4STh https://t.co/tcwDrc4g59
Rumours last week suggested that Gerrard would consider retiring from football, once the current MLS campaign had finished.
Although the 36-year-oldhas openly admitted to being undecided about his future, itappears he may bereluctant to hang up his boots just yet.
He told recently told theExpress: "I'm wondering whether I should play on for a little bit longer or whether I should call it a day. I haven't 100 per cent decided on that yet.
I still enjoy playing. I still love coming into training, I still love competing, so if I can carry on and there are opportunities to stay here, or go somewhere else for another six months or 12 months, then I'll consider it.
Steven Gerrard has played his last game in the MLS - and possibly his last as a professional footballer.
Describe his career in TWO words. pic.twitter.com/pVMhWNFgn0
I'm going to be a long-time retired and so I still want to enjoy things while I'm still feeling good.�
Now sources close toESPN, suggest the midfielder's comments were accurate and hecould well be leaning towards continuing his playing career, even thoughLiverpool managerJurgen Klopp has statedhe would welcome Gerrard back with open arms.
The Germantold the Express last month:Steven Gerrard “ and this will be a really big surprise “ is always so welcome at Liverpool FC.
You cannot imagine how welcome so absolutely no problem, but everything we will talk to each other about will stay in these talks.
"That is how I know Stevie and that is how I am. Nobody should be worried that we don't have space for Steven Gerrard. Everything will be fine, 100%.�
Despite Klopp's kind words, it's unlikely Gerrard would be offered a playing role at Anfield with the Reds looking set to mount a serious title challenge this season.
If the midfielder wants to continue playing for another season, then he may have to look away from Merseyside for the time being, even thougha coaching role with Liverpool,does appear a future option for the 36-year-old.