Steven Gerrard was a much better tourist than a player in LA

The former England captain has departed the LA Galaxy. And he always gave the impression of a man who valued the Californian lifestyle over MLS

There were more than a few familiar aspects to Steven Gerrard’s last appearance on a Major League Soccer pitch. Not for the first time, he stroked home a penalty past Tim Howard as the LA Galaxy vied with the Colorado Rapids for a place in the Western Conference final. And again, not for the first time, the 36-year-old finished a shoot-out on the losing side. It was an appropriate way for Gerrard to bring this stint of his career to a close.

Of course, that isn’t reflective of the glittering 18-year career Gerrard has enjoyed, during which he hoisted the Champions League (among other trophies) and captained England at a World Cup, but MLS fans won’t remember him in the same way the Anfield faithful will. In truth, the midfielder’s North American jaunt only underlined his decline. Gerrard will surely one day admit regret over the move.

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