Liverpool are confident of keeping iconic captain Steven Gerrard at Anfield, even though the midfielder is now free to talk to other clubs, according to reports from the Daily Mail.

The 34-year-old Reds skipper is now in the final six months of his contract with the Merseyside giants, which will allow him to discuss a potential Bosman switches to other interested sides.

There is already rumoured to be a queue in place for the veteran star – New York Red Bulls are one side linked with a swoop – but Liverpool are sure they will keep their local hero.

WANT MORE? >> Liverpool transfer news | Latest transfer news

Gerrard has been the club’s talisman for the best part of 15 years, yet his performances have been criticised in recent times, with his infamous slip against Chelsea last season a key moment as the Premier League title evaded the club.

A contract offer is believed to be on the table for ‘Stevie G’, yet Liverpool’s owners are reluctant to offer him the salary he currently earns, £140,000-per-week, given his advancing years.

Gerrard is set to return to Rodgers starting XI today against Leicester after sitting out the Swansea game, and when quizzed on whether he’s comfortable with the player’s situation, the Northern Irishman said:

“I think he’s earned that respect if he does (talk to other clubs).” He is quoted by the Daily Mail. “I’ve got a great relationship and communication with Steven. He’s a wonderful player, a wonderful servant to this football club, and in my time here he’s been brilliant for me.

“When I came in here two-and-a-half years ago, everyone asked if he could play my type of football or if his legs had gone. You’ve seen him over the last couple of years. He could have been player of the year last season.

“I’m managing his game time. He understands my situation of picking the best team and making it fresh as often as we can.”

[ad_pod id='ricco' align='center']