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500 beer bottles make Gerrard an instant hit at LA Galaxy

Last updated on: July 06, 2015 15:21 IST

New Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard

New Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard is introduced in front of fans. Photograph: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Liverpool Football Club legend Steven Gerrard became an instant hit with LA Galaxy fans even before kicking a ball in Major League Soccer.

The 35-year-old was introduced to the MLS club's supporters at half-time during their MLS match against Toronto FC on Saturday night. 

But before that he treated the fans to 500 bottles of beer.

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard

Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard sends 500 beer bottles to fans. Photograph: Twitter

To celebrate July 4, America's Independence Day, Gerrard left a care package of large quantities of beer for the top three supporters groups after the game. It came with a note from the man himself.

It read:

‘LA Riot Squad --

Even though I've yet to wear an LA Galaxy jersey, I am excited for the opportunity to play in front of LARS and earn your respect.

Supporters are the lifeblood of any club and I know that with your support we'll challenge for MLS Cup again.

As a token of my appreciation for what you do for the club, I wanted to provide you with the refreshments for the 4th of July.

I look forward to meeting you at tonight's match.

Respectfully,

Steven Gerrard.’

Alex Curran, right, wife of new Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard and Claudine Keane wife of Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane

Alex Curran, right, wife of new Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard and Claudine Keane, wife of Los Angeles Galaxy forward Robbie Keane, in the owner's box before Gerrard is introduced. Photograph: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

A dapper Gerrard gave a rousing speech to the crowd at the interval that went down extremely well with the home support as Galaxy beat Toronto FC 4-0.

Wife Alex, accompanied by Robbie Keane's wife, Claudine, watched from the box.

A fan holds a welcome sign as the new Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard

A fan welcomes new Los Angeles Galaxy midfielder Steven Gerrard after he was introduced in front of fans during half-time against Toronto FC. Photograph: Kevork Djansezian/Getty Images

Steven said: "Thank you very much for a fantastic welcome.

"Thank you for making myself and my family feel at home in LA. It feels great to be here, I'm excited and I can't wait to get my boots on and play.

"And hopefully we can have some good times together. Happy 4th of July."

Gerrard will begin training on Tuesday before making his MLS debut on Friday, July 17, against the San Jose Earthquakes.

Rediff Sports Desk