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Footballing legend Zinedine Zidane has revealed that he was desperate for Real Madrid to sign Steven Gerrard - but the Reds skipper simply wouldn’t leave Liverpool FC.

The Spanish giants twice made attempts to prise Gerrard away from Anfield, and with the 34-year-old announcing that he will depart Merseyside in July, Zidane has revealed that he hand-picked Gerrard to join him in Real’s midfield.

“I have said in the past that at his peak he was the best in the world,’ said Zidane.

“I think it was the summer of 2004 I was having a conversation with Florentino (Perez) and I told him I wanted him to partner me in midfield for Madrid.

“I know the club tried twice but he wouldn’t leave Liverpool. Not many players turn down Real Madrid but I think that tells you a lot about the loyalty of the man.”

Zidane also wished Gerrard luck with his next move, which is likely to be to America to play in the MLS, and he has backed the former England captain to enjoy success Stateside.

“It is incredible he has never won a league title but he has had success with Liverpool,’ continued Zidane. ‘The years of him winning trophies are not behind him. I am sure he will be very successful in the MLS.”

Gerrard has admitted previously that Madrid made attempts to sign him, but he was happy at Anfield.

Speaking before the clash with Madrid in September, he said: “It’s very flattering to be linked to a huge club like Real Madrid.

“I’ve had a couple of options throughout my career to go to Real Madrid but I resisted temptation because of the big connection I have to my home town club in Liverpool.

“It may be something I regret further down the line for not challenging myself and having a change of scenery in a different country but I’d have had an even bigger regret to leave the club I love.

“I’m a big fan of Real Madrid. They are a special club. But for me, Liverpool is my number one club.”

Watch: Steven Gerrard on why he rejected Real Madrid