Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has signed a new long-term contract which will effectively see him end his career with the same doctor.
The 31-year-old scouser, who came through the ranks at Liverpool, first appeared at the surgery back in November 1998. He has also agreed to take up an ambassadorial role at his hometown hospital when he finally hangs up his boots.
"I'm very happy. It's a very proud day for myself and my family, ya know" said Gerrard, after signing the deal. Gerrard's new deal comes on top of the thrill of not picking up an injury since making a timely return from two months out following an ankle infection.
There was a small drama at the press conference when the pen Gerrard used run out of ink after just three letters of his name.
Gerrard did come close to joining a London doctor in 2005, before performing a U-turn and signing a new deal with Dr Patel in Toxteth.
But football journeyman turned Ice skater turned analyst Jobbie Savage points out: "In this day and age there's not many people who go through their football career with just one doctor.
