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Liverpool chairman Tom Werner has vowed that Steven Gerrard will always have a place at Anfield.

The legendary captain will make the final home appearance of his 17-year Reds career against Crystal Palace today.

Gerrard is joining Los Angeles Galaxy on an 18-month deal but Werner says owners Fenway Sports Group (FSG) are committed to bringing him back to Liverpool.

The 34-year-old will be offered a role at the club when he decides to hang up his boots.

“I don’t see this as goodbye,” Werner told the ECHO.

“I just see this as the end of a remarkable chapter for Steven in terms of his career at Liverpool.

“I’m very hopeful that Steven will return to the club in another role at some stage in the future and his great association with Liverpool will continue.

“It’s true that I’ve spoken to Steven about coming back. We’ve had some discussions which will remain private but we certainly see him as having an important place in the club’s future.

“There is no specific plan. We will sit down at some point just to talk about what his desires are but we are dedicated to continuing that relationship.”

Werner views Gerrard as the perfect role model and says Liverpool need to ensure they benefit from his inspirational qualities going forward.

“We’re respectful, not just of his playing talents and his experience, but also his honesty, wisdom and integrity,” Werner said.

He's been a wonderful captain - I've taken on board his comments about how to improve the club

“He’s such a down to earth, humble individual. If you met him on a train and didn’t know who he was, you wouldn’t believe he’s one of the greatest footballers of his generation.

“It’s the values he brings to the club. His dedication and commitment to seeing the club succeed. We want to tap into that.”

Werner first met Gerrard back in October 2010 when FSG completed their takeover. Since then the American has marvelled at the midfielder’s talent, leadership and loyalty.

“John (Henry) and I met him shortly after we were successful in acquiring Liverpool FC,” he said.

“I was struck by his interest in making sure that our dreams for Liverpool matched his own.

“He was delighted we were committed to winning trophies and pleased that we were knowledgeable about the league. He has been very supportive and respectful throughout. He’s been a wonderful captain.

“I’ve had numerous conversations with him about how we can improve the club and I’ve taken on board his comments. I’m privileged to class Steven as a good friend.

“One of the most remarkable parts of his story is his unwavering commitment to one club. The fact he has played 500 Premier League games for Liverpool is some achievement.

“When one talks about loyalty and dedication, he’s the perfect example of that. He could easily have left to join another club but devoted himself to Liverpool because of his love for the club. That’s very special.

The thing I'll remember most is his sheer joy at scoring a goal

“I’ve also been so impressed with his interest in creating important philanthropy. He directly contributes to the wellbeing of the citizens of Liverpool.

“The charity match that took place at Anfield in March, I don’t think anyone else could have attracted such a collection of world class players in the middle of the season.

“The fact that they turned out was a sign of the respect fellow players have for him. It was a real compliment to Steven.”

Gerrard will leave behind a host of memories when he leaves for the States but Werner will always recall his bond with the Kop.

“What I’ll remember most about Steven is the joy he exhibits after he scores a goal. That grin. That expression of delight,” he said.

“He understands that he’s a servant of the club. That joy stems from the fact that he’s a fan himself.”

After the tributes have been paid, the discussion will centre on how Liverpool go about replacing such a talismanic figure.

Gerrard has urged FSG to invest in established talent rather than young potential to ensure the Reds kick on this summer and Werner has taken those comments on board.

“I read that,” Werner added.

“Our intention is to improve the squad this summer. But I wouldn’t want to say too much on that or discuss the transfer policy.

“The focus should be on Steven Gerrard. Saturday is all about his final Anfield appearance and celebrating his career.

“He’s irreplaceable but it’s up the whole team to pull together and move the club forward.”