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Steven Paul Gerrard was born in Huyton, Liverpool on 30 May 1980. Gerrard has regularly been outstanding even when his Liverpool side have been disappointing as a whole. He has been with Liverpool since the start of his career as a trainee on 26 February 1988. Gerrard made his debut for Liverpool in November 1998 as a sub against Blackburn. His full debut came in the UEFA Cup against Celta Vigo. The midfield ace has been dogged by injury problems but there is no doubting his determination, and great ability. Particularly impressive are his vision that enables his accurate long passing, and his shooting accuracy from long range. His skill has attracted praise from some unlikely quarters. In May 2004 Sir Alex Ferguson told the Sunday Times: "He has become the most influential player in England, bar none. Not that Vieira lacks anything, but Gerrard does more." Steven Gerrard has won with Liverpool the Worthington Cup (twice), the FA Cup and the UEFA Cup. However he has made it known that he craves higher honours. A regular for England when fit, Gerrard scored his first goal for his country with a typically brilliant shot in the fantastic 5-1 win over Germany in September 2001. He has regularly captained his club after first being given the opportunity by Gerard Houllier in October 2003. T-shirts depicting Gerrard as a gladiator with the words "At my signal, unleash Hell" are popular around Anfield. Courted by Chelsea during Euro 2004, Gerrard decided to stay at Liverpool. Fans will have to keep their fingers crossed that the club will produce the goods in 2004/5 and that this will persuade the ace midfielder to stay with Liverpool beyond the close season.