Steven Gerrard developed a lengthy list of rivals during his near two-decade career as a footballer.
The Liverpool legend officially announced his decision to retire on Thursday after 860 combined career appearances with Liverpool, England and LA Galaxy.
In a lengthy post on his Instagram account, he said: “Following recent media speculation surrounding my future I can confirm my retirement from playing professional football.
“I have had an incredible career and am thankful for each and every moment of my time at Liverpool, England and LA Galaxy.
“I feel very fortunate to have had the career I’ve had but none of it would have been possible without the support of so many people.”
Gerrard won eight major honours at Anfield in 710 appearances and developed on-field rivalries with a whole host of players from the likes of Manchester United, Everton, Chelsea, Arsenal amongst others.
As a Huyton native, the iconic midfielder was born into rivalries with Everton and United, but the ex-Reds skipper was embroiled in titanic battles over the years with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal in the Premier League, as well as AC Milan in two Champions League finals.
Some he won, some he lost, but Gerrard’s achievements have been recognised by a whole host of former rivals who were keen to give a show of respect to the retiring 36-year-old.
Here’s what some of Gerrard’s greatest foes thought about his decision to hang up his boots.
Steven Gerrard Congratulations on an amazing career. A player I respect on and off the field. One of the best players I've played against ?? pic.twitter.com/Q5zFmMeVhs
— TIM CAHILL (@Tim_Cahill) November 24, 2016
I've always said I would have loved to play with this man Steven Gerrard. What a legend and what a career. #Respect #Leader pic.twitter.com/ZcKWLjpoE9
— Thierry Henry (@ThierryHenry) November 24, 2016
? Thank you, Steven Gerrard, for everything you have given to the world of football. You will never walk alone!!! pic.twitter.com/5yYe0ZxZvH
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) November 24, 2016
A great rival, a legendary player. Congratulations on your wonderful career and good luck for your future Steven Gerrard! pic.twitter.com/3uIYo2bPwm
— AC Milan (@acmilan) November 24, 2016
A great opponent, a great player that has honored football… Good luck Stevie G! #Gerrard ? Ale #ADP10
— Alessandro Del Piero (@delpieroale) November 24, 2016
Steven, brilliant player, World legend. Congratulations for what you did for football! #Gerrard ?? pic.twitter.com/zsskrCEnwN
— Javier Zanetti (@javierzanetti) November 24, 2016
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