05.07.2005 - Parry: It was never about money

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Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has insisted that Steven Gerrard's decision to leave Liverpool is not down to money.

A contract worth £5million a season was reportedly offered to Gerrard, who turned down the offer, and the opportunity to extend his stay at Anfield.

But Parry is certain that the issue of money was not the reason behind Gerrard's decision.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Parry said: "I don't think it's an issue of money to be fair to Stevie. The money wasn't a problem."

"It was about long term commitment, and feeling this was the place he wanted to be and this was the place he was going to win trophies."

"And I guess in the final analysis he feels he'll do better elsewhere."

Parry also admitted that he expects a number of clubs to show an interest in signing Gerrard, though the only firm offer to have been received by Liverpool so far was a failed £32million bid from Chelsea.