Departing Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard admits the “buzz” of playing changed when he learned he was to have a restricted role and that was when he decided to sever ties with his boyhood club.

The midfielder, who turns 35 later this month, retired from England duty last July in order to extend his lifespan at club level but early in the season he discovered he would no longer be a regular starter under manager Brendan Rodgers.

That proved to be a major factor in him not signing a contract extension and opting to move for a new challenge with the Los Angeles Galaxy at the end of the campaign.

“I think the signs this year were that I’m going to become a squad player, play less,” said Gerrard.

“I’m going to come on as a sub and the buzz changes.

“For me, I go to work on a Monday morning and I look forward to Saturday, to prepare to go to battle with some wonderful people – with good mates – and that’s my buzz.

“When your club manager gets you into the office and says that’s going to change and it’s going to become more limited – that’s when you make your decision.

“It’s not a selfish thing; coming on as a substitute is just not the same buzz so things have changed this year.”