Instead of a huge conglomerate of reporters like there was for Beckham, there was a manageable throng on hand to greet Gerrard.
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Sky Sports conducted interviews with people from the Los Angeles area, asking them who Steven Gerrard is. In 2007, the Galaxy were a struggling squad that missed the playoffs that year.
A quick adaptation to the rigors of MLS is vital for success in Gerrard’s stint with Galaxy, but to aid that process, the ex- Liverpool FC man has already begun to lean on ex- teammate Robbie Keane for advice.
For Galaxy president Chris Klein, putting together a winning team that can capture the knowledgeable American fan base is now the club’s focus, rather than signing players exclusively to make a big splash.
“It’s grown, I think it’s improved”, Gerrard said of MLS.
“I’m very excited to be here”.
Now it has been claimed the Swansea City passmaster could be joining them with New York Red Bulls reported as a potential suitor ahead of the opening of the league’s mid-season transfer window. Gerrard’s class was evident as he frequently set up easy opportunities for his new teammates-although his shooting lacked precision after six weeks without a competitive match. Though not an especially vocal player, the ex- Liverpool star has a presence about him that engenders respect, they said.
The midfielder was unfazed when asked about difficulties of field quality, adverse weather conditions and the wear of travel in the league.
One person even thought Gerrard was a ex- Manchester United player.
“I have had a great week’s training so far and it won’t take too long to adjust”.
That willing attitude was part of the reason for the Galaxy pursuing Gerrard with a fervor that impressed the new arrival, especially with his minutes declining at Liverpool. “The club and [head coach] Bruce [Arena] were very aggressive in making me come here and I’m very excited to be here”.
He has made no secret of how much he loves California, and he had a word with his pal Gerrard to encourage him to play in LA.
Gerrard follows another ex- England captain, David Beckham, to the Galaxy and he says it was advice from him that helped persuade him to make the move.
“You mentioned two names in David Beckham and Landon Donovan who contributed greatly to the club”.
“David’s a hero of mine, someone I was lucky to play with”.
Gerrard will wear his familiar number eight shirt at Galaxy, where he will link up again with ex- Liverpool team-mate Robbie Keane, who has played for the LA side since 2011.
“I’ve known Stevie from playing with him on Liverpool”, Keane said. He’s a legend and a hero, I’ve seen his performances over the years and I know that’s the standard that everyone is looking for.
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During his first press conference as an LA Galaxy player, he was questioned about his adaptability, both to the league and the climate.
