Steven Gerrard has played for Liverpool for nearly 16 years. He's captained the Reds since 2003. He's won the Champions League, the FA Cup and the League Cup. He's captained England in both the European Cup and the World Cup.
But there is one title that has eluded Gerrard: Barclays Premier League champion. That might yet change this season. Liverpool currently sits in second place in the Premiership, a single point behind leader Chelsea. The Reds have won six straight games, scoring three or more goals in all but one of those matches. Luis Suarez has been absolutely absurd this season. He has 28 goals in 26 games to lead the league. Teammate Daniel Sturridge is second with 20 goals.
But on Wednesday, the man they call Stevie G reminded us who carries Anfield's flag. He scored a trademark free kick in a 2-1 win over Sunderland.
This goal tells you all you need to know about Gerrard. Suarez, who drew the foul, motioned to the ball first as if he was going to take the kick. The captain took the reins instead. Nearing 34 years of age, Gerrard doesn't have the box-to-box range that once made him one of the world's best players. But he's still capable of the sublime as he proved Wednesday. Moreover, he overflows with leadership on the pitch, whether it's a desperate tackle or a timely spot kick.
Liverpool may falter in the title chase. If you have no rooting interest, pull for Gerrard.
Your Thursday links for your enjoyment.
From Breaking Bad to Lost: The Quality of 13 Famous TV Shows, Charted Over Time - Wired.com
Episode #6 Golf Podcast: Jim Furyk, Matt Every, Adam Scott, Reba McEntire, and more - USGolfTV
Quinton Ross says Monday was "tough day" after being reported dead - NBCSports
Keep It Short - New York Times
What happened before and after Terry Trafford's suicide - The Hockey News
Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf: Here, gone and quickly forgotten - SB Nation
Culture Club - Grantland
No. 47: Albert Pujols - Joe Posnanski
Kicks That Changed the Game - SLAMonline
