After spending his entire career with Liverpool, midfielder Steven Gerrard was officially introduced as a member of the MLS club Los Angeles Galaxy Tuesday.
"I'm excited to be here, and the game on Saturday can't come quickly enough. I've had a wonderful reception from the staff around the place and even more important, from my teammates. I can't wait to get playing with them," Gerrard, 35, said in a news conference.
He will be making his MLS debut against the San Jose Earthquakes on July 17.
"We have a fantastic team and a fantastic set up and if I can just add a little bit and play to the best of my abilities than the future will be really bright. I'm so happy to be here and excited and my family is settling in really well and now it's just down to business and performing on the pitch," the midfielder added.
Gerrard understands the need to adapt, saying: "But I adapt pretty quickly, and I've been around the game for a long time and I'm pretty experienced. So, I think that transition will happen very quickly."
"For me, I want to get off to a good start and I don't want any excuses that I need months to settle in. I'm looking to fire from the beginning," Gerrard added.
He also spoke about doing what David Beckham and Landon Donovan did for the club that made it successful, and said he would be happy if he could achieve the same result.
Gerrard also spoke about former club Liverpool, where he played for 17 seasons, and about wanting a new start.
"I love Liverpool Football Club and I always will. I'm still a fan to this day. But I needed a fresh challenge. I didn't want to become a squad player for the club that I love. It's all about success. I've come here to win. If there is anyone who thinks I came here for a holiday and a last pay cheque, they'll be proven wrong very soon," he said.
