You obviously need talent, but I believe you need luck as well and I had a bit of that.
People always ask if I felt any added pressure being from the city… pressure? It’s not pressure playing football. I loved it! If I wasn’t getting paid for it, I would’ve been doing it anyway.
I don’t think I ever went into a football game worried or fazed or focused on anything other than myself, and I think that is a good thing.
I was obviously given the nickname ‘God’ by the supporters – I just want to clarify… I don’t call myself that!
I was just maybe one of the lucky ones who got christened by the fans. When you think of all the legends and superstars who have played for Liverpool over the years, it’s such an honour.
It’s funny that it’s the local little skinny kid who got that particular one. And, let’s be honest, it’s probably the best nickname in football!
As a player, regardless of what level you’re playing at, you want to be remembered for winning trophies. I grew up desperately wanting to win the FA Cup because that’s what football was all about back then.
The League Cup in 1995 was my first trophy and medal so I hold that one quite dear – and I made my debut in that competition as well.
I was lucky to play a part in the treble-winning season in 2001. As much as I left the club shortly after that, I felt like I more than played my part. I scored in the League Cup and UEFA Cup finals and came on when we were 1-0 down in the FA Cup final as well.
It was special to achieve those things for Liverpool. I obviously left after that for a little over four years.
I wanted to play – I hated not playing and I know I wasn’t the easiest person to be around when I wasn’t, but I’d never apologise for that because I believed in my own ability.
