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My Story
Steven Gerrard - legendary captain of Liverpool and England - tells the story of the highs and lows of a twenty-year career at the top of English and world football.
As the only player ever to have scored in a FA cup final, a league cup final, a UEFA cup final and a champion's league final, Steven Gerrard is an inspiration to fans and footballers alike. His loyalty to his beloved Liverpool - joining at the age of eight, Gerrard played over 700 games for the club - ensures he will be remembered not only as one of the all-time Anfield greats but one of England's finest footballers.
In My Story Gerrard dissects his full playing career. He examines the defining games such as the 2005 Champion's League Final when he inspired 'The Miracle of Istanbul' as Liverpool came back from 3-0 down against AC Milan to become champions of Europe. He talks about his 114 caps for England, including World Cup and European Championship campaigns, asking what went right - and wrong.
He writes candidly of those he's played with and competed against, from Luis Suárez to Jose Mourinho, his experiences under Brendan Rodgers and Roy Hodgson. He also has an incredible and rare personal story, telling us of the extraordinary ups and downs of staying loyal to one club for your entire career.
Explosive and searingly honest, Steven Gerrard's My Story is the last word from an era-defining player.
As the only player ever to have scored in a FA cup final, a league cup final, a UEFA cup final and a champion's league final, Steven Gerrard is an inspiration to fans and footballers alike. His loyalty to his beloved Liverpool - joining at the age of eight, Gerrard played over 700 games for the club - ensures he will be remembered not only as one of the all-time Anfield greats but one of England's finest footballers.
In My Story Gerrard dissects his full playing career. He examines the defining games such as the 2005 Champion's League Final when he inspired 'The Miracle of Istanbul' as Liverpool came back from 3-0 down against AC Milan to become champions of Europe. He talks about his 114 caps for England, including World Cup and European Championship campaigns, asking what went right - and wrong.
He writes candidly of those he's played with and competed against, from Luis Suárez to Jose Mourinho, his experiences under Brendan Rodgers and Roy Hodgson. He also has an incredible and rare personal story, telling us of the extraordinary ups and downs of staying loyal to one club for your entire career.
Explosive and searingly honest, Steven Gerrard's My Story is the last word from an era-defining player.
496 pages, Hardcover
First published September 24, 2015
245 people are currently reading
1915 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
June 19, 2021
Gerrrrraaaaarrrrrdddd! Ohhhhhhhhhhhh! You beautyyyyy! What a hit, son! WHAT...A...HIT!
There are some books you just can't rate objectively. I believe this to be a very good autobiography that, naturally, provides a lot of insight into the world of football. It also was written at the perfect time I think, with Stevie leaving Liverpool and heading to LA to bring closure to a fantastic footballer's career. As far as objectively goes I'll have to leave it at that.
I am a Liverpool Fan. I am a Steven Gerrard Fan. So this was a very emotional read for me.
To relive all these moments, the good and the bad, the glorious nights and the days full of pain. And then see it through the eyes of our captain. Learn what went on behind the scenes in those moments. It was fantastic, hilarious at times, sad at others, a joy from beginning to end.
I got really nostalgic at times, and amazed. I laughed a lot and cried a little. I'm not ashamed to admit this. This is what football can do. It can make grown men get really emotional. And a few players have the ability to enhance this even more. None more so than Steven Gerrard. With his talent and determination. His unbelievable goals. His leadership. Countless Captain Fantastic performances. And most of all with his passion and love for the game and for Liverpool Football Club.
Thanks, Stevie! It's been a hell of a ride!
There are some books you just can't rate objectively. I believe this to be a very good autobiography that, naturally, provides a lot of insight into the world of football. It also was written at the perfect time I think, with Stevie leaving Liverpool and heading to LA to bring closure to a fantastic footballer's career. As far as objectively goes I'll have to leave it at that.
I am a Liverpool Fan. I am a Steven Gerrard Fan. So this was a very emotional read for me.
To relive all these moments, the good and the bad, the glorious nights and the days full of pain. And then see it through the eyes of our captain. Learn what went on behind the scenes in those moments. It was fantastic, hilarious at times, sad at others, a joy from beginning to end.
I got really nostalgic at times, and amazed. I laughed a lot and cried a little. I'm not ashamed to admit this. This is what football can do. It can make grown men get really emotional. And a few players have the ability to enhance this even more. None more so than Steven Gerrard. With his talent and determination. His unbelievable goals. His leadership. Countless Captain Fantastic performances. And most of all with his passion and love for the game and for Liverpool Football Club.
Thanks, Stevie! It's been a hell of a ride!
July 31, 2016
For a die-hard Liverpool fan such as myself, this book has been eagerly awaited.
Narrated in the brutally honest tone of Liverpool's iconic captain, the book doesn't shy away from landing a few strong punches. Clearly, Gerrard couldn't care less about political correctness (especially at this stage in life).
El Hadji Diouf certainly won't be pleased after reading this. Rafa might have mixed feelings as well. But, it is great to see the regard that Gerrard has for great football players, irrespective of the club rivalry with their teams. In particular, the chapters on Istanbul and 'the slip' are brilliant to read. On more than a few occasions, I had moist eyes as I recalled the ups and downs of the legend's career.
With his insights, Gerrard is likely to ruffle a few feathers and not everyone is likely to view his book positively. But, for a boyhood Liverpool (and Gerrard) fan, this is going to be a regular re-read in the foreseeable future.
Yes,the book has its quibbles. There are passages that could've been shorter and less repetitive. But even then, I'd think this deserves 4.5ish stars.
Reserving the remaining half star for one of the best footballing autobiographies I've ever read - that of Gerrard's former teammate and friend, Carra: My Autobiography
Narrated in the brutally honest tone of Liverpool's iconic captain, the book doesn't shy away from landing a few strong punches. Clearly, Gerrard couldn't care less about political correctness (especially at this stage in life).
El Hadji Diouf certainly won't be pleased after reading this. Rafa might have mixed feelings as well. But, it is great to see the regard that Gerrard has for great football players, irrespective of the club rivalry with their teams. In particular, the chapters on Istanbul and 'the slip' are brilliant to read. On more than a few occasions, I had moist eyes as I recalled the ups and downs of the legend's career.
With his insights, Gerrard is likely to ruffle a few feathers and not everyone is likely to view his book positively. But, for a boyhood Liverpool (and Gerrard) fan, this is going to be a regular re-read in the foreseeable future.
Yes,the book has its quibbles. There are passages that could've been shorter and less repetitive. But even then, I'd think this deserves 4.5ish stars.
Reserving the remaining half star for one of the best footballing autobiographies I've ever read - that of Gerrard's former teammate and friend, Carra: My Autobiography
November 3, 2015
I tried to drag this book as much as possible for I didn't want it to end. Each time I was reading, I convinced my self that the club we love so much has lost a true player. I know that he will be back but till than there won't be someone who can fill his shoe. Such a humble person who has his respect for every single person that crossed his path being Jose Mourinho or Sir Alex Fergusson. This book is a must read not only for all Liverpool Supporters but also to those who love football and watch the Premier League.
July 24, 2016
Не съм фен нито на Джерард,нито на Ливърпул,но определено ги уважавам.
Бях за тях 2005-та на финала - определено най-хубавият финал в Шампионската лига.
Книгата е написана страхотно - увлекателно,чете се на един дъх (извинявам се за клишето),Джерард споделя откровено - или поне така е написано - доста свои мисли относно дадени моменти в кариерата си,играчи,с които е играл, вижданията си за играта като цяло.А той е играч,който има какво да разкаже.
За неговите и на Ливърпул фенове е задължително четиво,но я препоръчвам и на всички любители на спортните биографии,определено няма да съжаляват.
Бях за тях 2005-та на финала - определено най-хубавият финал в Шампионската лига.
Книгата е написана страхотно - увлекателно,чете се на един дъх (извинявам се за клишето),Джерард споделя откровено - или поне така е написано - доста свои мисли относно дадени моменти в кариерата си,играчи,с които е играл, вижданията си за играта като цяло.А той е играч,който има какво да разкаже.
За неговите и на Ливърпул фенове е задължително четиво,но я препоръчвам и на всички любители на спортните биографии,определено няма да съжаляват.
February 19, 2011
Steven Gerrard is my biggest hero,and my idol, so when I got hold of his autobiography, I was thrilled! I started reading it as soon as I got home. This book was perfect for me, because being a passionate Liverpool F.C fan, and being so far away from Liverpool, it took me right into the magical spirit of the boot room, the kop, and the thril of the merseyside derby, and the feeling that a captain gets when he wins tha champions'league, or the F.A cup, or being handed the captain's armband for one of the most successfull teams ever at only 22 years old. I hope Steven Gerrard writes yet another autobiography soon to summarize a beautiful career in a book which will be treasured by millions of Liverpool F.C fans around the world.
June 28, 2016
Фен съм на "Ливърпул" откакто се помня да следя футбол (1993 г.) и за мен беше истинско удоволствие да прочета биографията на един велик футболист и капитан, отдал кариерата си на любимия отбор. Още повече че книгата се фокусира основно върху събитията от последното десетилетие и най-вече последните 2-3 години, от които имам по-съзнателни и пресни спомени.
Развълнувах се като се върнах назад към магическата нощ от Истанбул, 2005 г., доста по-негативни емоции се събудиха от двете изпуснати титли през сезони 2008-2009 и 2013-2014. Изненада за мен беше възхищението, с което Стивън говори за Моуриньо - лично за мен изключително антипатичен като поведение и като стил на игра, който налага в неговите отбори. Също и тоталната дистанция, на която Бенитес е държал всички играчи. Останал съм с впечатлението, че поне с Торес и Джерард и Алонсо поддържа по-близки взаимоотношения, тъй като под негово ръководство те играеха зашеметяващо. Хареса ми и трезвия и самокритичен поглед, с който Стивън разглежда играта си. От друга страна останах с впечатлението от разсъжденията му относно тактиката на Ливърпул и Англия за някои мачове, че един бъдещ мениджър Джерард ще залага на предимно изчакващ подход в някои случаи, което не знам доколко се вписва в представата ми за вълнуващ футбол. Все пак бих искал някой ден да го видя начело на любимия ни отбор.
Малко в повече ми дойдоха детайлите за игровите ситуации по време на мачовете. Това бих отчел като някакъв минус, но пък в крайна сметка това е историята на футболист и то какъв.
Развълнувах се като се върнах назад към магическата нощ от Истанбул, 2005 г., доста по-негативни емоции се събудиха от двете изпуснати титли през сезони 2008-2009 и 2013-2014. Изненада за мен беше възхищението, с което Стивън говори за Моуриньо - лично за мен изключително антипатичен като поведение и като стил на игра, който налага в неговите отбори. Също и тоталната дистанция, на която Бенитес е държал всички играчи. Останал съм с впечатлението, че поне с Торес и Джерард и Алонсо поддържа по-близки взаимоотношения, тъй като под негово ръководство те играеха зашеметяващо. Хареса ми и трезвия и самокритичен поглед, с който Стивън разглежда играта си. От друга страна останах с впечатлението от разсъжденията му относно тактиката на Ливърпул и Англия за някои мачове, че един бъдещ мениджър Джерард ще залага на предимно изчакващ подход в някои случаи, което не знам доколко се вписва в представата ми за вълнуващ футбол. Все пак бих искал някой ден да го видя начело на любимия ни отбор.
Малко в повече ми дойдоха детайлите за игровите ситуации по време на мачовете. Това бих отчел като някакъв минус, но пък в крайна сметка това е историята на футболист и то какъв.
May 12, 2016
You’ll Never Walk Alone: http://knigolandia.info/book-review/s...
Всъщност не знам защо станах фен на “Ливърпул”, сигурно е заради баща ми, който ми е разказвал за легендарното минало, което, докато бях малък, съвсем не беше далеч… нямаше как да знам, че и 20 и повече години по-късно следващата титла ще е само мираж, не че би имало значение. “Моята история” се фокусира предимно точно върху сезона преди 2 години, когато “Ливърпул” държеше титлата в ръцете си, но онова злощастно подхлъзване именно на Джерард възвести провала. Леле, колко мразех Моуриньо в оня момент, и до наши дни ми е ултраантипатичен, а и той професионално води само клубове, които ненавиждам по една или друга причина, така че добре се комбинират нещата. В цялата книга обаче Джерард говори с най-голямо възхищение именно за него – как е искал да играе под негово ръководство, но любовта към “Ливърпул” е била над всичко. Нещо, което в днешния комерсиализиран футбол звучи демоде (макар “Лестър” да върнаха надеждата, че парите още не са всичко).
Издателска Къща "Жануа'98"
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/s...
Всъщност не знам защо станах фен на “Ливърпул”, сигурно е заради баща ми, който ми е разказвал за легендарното минало, което, докато бях малък, съвсем не беше далеч… нямаше как да знам, че и 20 и повече години по-късно следващата титла ще е само мираж, не че би имало значение. “Моята история” се фокусира предимно точно върху сезона преди 2 години, когато “Ливърпул” държеше титлата в ръцете си, но онова злощастно подхлъзване именно на Джерард възвести провала. Леле, колко мразех Моуриньо в оня момент, и до наши дни ми е ултраантипатичен, а и той професионално води само клубове, които ненавиждам по една или друга причина, така че добре се комбинират нещата. В цялата книга обаче Джерард говори с най-голямо възхищение именно за него – как е искал да играе под негово ръководство, но любовта към “Ливърпул” е била над всичко. Нещо, което в днешния комерсиализиран футбол звучи демоде (макар “Лестър” да върнаха надеждата, че парите още не са всичко).
Издателска Къща "Жануа'98"
http://knigolandia.info/book-review/s...
December 22, 2016
Bu kitabi ciktiginda on siparis ile almistim. Cunku icinde cok merak ettigim birkac bolum vardi. Onlari okuduktan sonra kalani zamana yayarak ara ara okudum.
Liverpool ile aram malum mactan sonra bozulsa da cocuklugumdan beri duyudugum sempatiyi antipatiye ceviremedi. Her ne kadar koyu bir Spurs taraftari olsam da Liverpool'a ve onun Gerrard, Carragher gibi ikon olmus futbolcularina saygim sonsuz. Bu kitap da bu saygimin bosa olmadiginin ispatlarindan birisi.
Gonlum isterdi ki bu kitabi Arsenal taraftari bir hayalet yazar degil de Steven'in kendisi yazmis olsun. Cunku gercekten cok iyi bir is cikarmislar. Akici, guzel cumleler, duyuguyu tamamen yansitan sozukler. Anadilim Ingilizce olmamasina ragmen zevk alarak zorlanmadan okudum.
Kitap genel olarak Gerrard'in kariyerinin son iki yilina odaklansa da gondermelerle kariyerinin onceki donemlerinden de kesitler var elbet. En cok hosuma giden noktasi ise Gerrard'in cok acik sozlu ve durust bir sekilde neler hissetigini yazmasi oldu. Tabii ki okuyunca bazi eski arkadaslari bundan rahatsiz olacaklar (ki muhtemelen coktan oldular) ama gercekleri anlatmasi bakimindan onemli olmus.
Liverpool ile aram malum mactan sonra bozulsa da cocuklugumdan beri duyudugum sempatiyi antipatiye ceviremedi. Her ne kadar koyu bir Spurs taraftari olsam da Liverpool'a ve onun Gerrard, Carragher gibi ikon olmus futbolcularina saygim sonsuz. Bu kitap da bu saygimin bosa olmadiginin ispatlarindan birisi.
Gonlum isterdi ki bu kitabi Arsenal taraftari bir hayalet yazar degil de Steven'in kendisi yazmis olsun. Cunku gercekten cok iyi bir is cikarmislar. Akici, guzel cumleler, duyuguyu tamamen yansitan sozukler. Anadilim Ingilizce olmamasina ragmen zevk alarak zorlanmadan okudum.
Kitap genel olarak Gerrard'in kariyerinin son iki yilina odaklansa da gondermelerle kariyerinin onceki donemlerinden de kesitler var elbet. En cok hosuma giden noktasi ise Gerrard'in cok acik sozlu ve durust bir sekilde neler hissetigini yazmasi oldu. Tabii ki okuyunca bazi eski arkadaslari bundan rahatsiz olacaklar (ki muhtemelen coktan oldular) ama gercekleri anlatmasi bakimindan onemli olmus.
February 24, 2022
Didn't enjoy it as much as I have enjoyed other football autobiographies. Found it a bit too lengthy with excessive details on matches that wasn't to my liking. I did enjoy his perspective on the game though.
September 27, 2015
This is the second autobiography from former Liverpool and England captain Steven Gerrard. Steven Gerrard doesn't need an introduction - but his insistence of staying a Liverpool over the span of an entire career is (unfortunately) of a dying breed.
It's main focus is on the latter years, with flashback and comparisons to former years' highlights.
Starting with the good:
It's a fine insight into one of the most profilic and inspirational footballers in England over the last 20 years.
The highs in the books comes, when he describes the feelings and doubts that goes through his mind while he has his ups and downs throughout his career.
There's been a lot of talk and banter about "The Slip" (Steven slipped in the middle of the pitch, allowing Chelsea to score and costing Liverpool the first league title in 25 years), but in "My Story" Gerrard describes, in depth, how he felt straight afterwards. The same feelings he would feel a year later when being sent off against Manchester United after having spent under one minute on the field.
Every Liverpool-fan will love his bashing of Diouff (who in his right mind spits on the Celtic supporters? Disgraceful), and his questions about the mentality of a player like Mario Balotelli is something every football fan has had over the years.
The book really shines when he goes in depth with what goes on behind the scenes of a big football club like Liverpool FC - what's happening in a club when their captain for more than 10 years have to ask repeatedly for a new contract, and finally getting an offer he couldn't possibly accept with the ultimatum of signing the contract or leaving? The description of Rafael Benitez as a cold tactician really is a highlight, one scene in particular where Gerrard speaks with Rafa after the penalty win in the FA Cup final in 2006. Gerrard is, understandably, expecting some praise (he has after all scored 2 goals in a historic final in one of the biggest competitions in English football), but the only reaction from Rafa Benitez is that the team "have to do better in the league next year".
The bad:
The book is bloated with long summaries of matches played the last couple of years. As a true red I remember the games vividly, but I don't really need to read about who passed who in a match against Stoke 3 years ago.
There are far too many repetitions: We can all agree that Liverpool supporters are the best in the world, but after reading the praise for them 20 times each chapter, it gets old fast. That Gerrard returns to the magical night in Instanbul in 2005 time and again is understandable, but unfortunately it's not all that good reading material after the umptieth time. The praise for some of his former teammates is something I fully understand too, but I don't really need to read about the supreme skill of Suarez/Alonso/Rooney/Torres 500 times ...
There really are some great football biographies out there, to name a few I'd go with Paul Gascoigne's Gazza : My Story (which really is extraordinary with it's describtion of Gazza's trouble with alcohol and a struggle against a fragile psyche) or A Life Too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke (which is more of a story about a man battling [and losing to] depression in the macho-world of modern football). I also enjoyed Alex Ferguson's autobiography (and this comes from a diehard fan of Liverpool FC).
Steven Gerrard's "My Story" is an OK read, but it lacks the extra something the afore mentioned biographies contain.
I understand why Gerrard wants to keep the focus on the things happening on the pitch, but all the long summaries and repetition really could've been cut in half for a better reading experience.
Should you read it?
Fill out this checklist. If you can check more yeses than noes, then go ahead and read it:
1. Do you enjoy reading about fooball in general?
2. Would you like an insight into what goes on behind the scenes of a big football club?
3. Are you a Liverpool-fan?
4. Are you a football-fan?
5. Do you like to read biographies and would you like to know more about one of the best players in English football?
6. Would you like to read about Gerrard's penis? (yep, there is 2 pages dedicated to an injury Steven Gerrad got in his crown jewels)
7. Are you nostalgic about football?
8. Would you like to read the lyrics to "The Suarez song" 10+ times?
9. Would you like to read the lyrics to "You'll never Walk Alone" 10+ times?
10. Do you think Steven Gerrard should have taken a couple of seasons more in Liverpool?
I'm gonna end the review where Gerrard's career in Liverpool ended, by doing The Kolo Dance with the rest of the Liverpool-squad. A fitting end for a great football player and a fine book.
It's main focus is on the latter years, with flashback and comparisons to former years' highlights.
Starting with the good:
It's a fine insight into one of the most profilic and inspirational footballers in England over the last 20 years.
The highs in the books comes, when he describes the feelings and doubts that goes through his mind while he has his ups and downs throughout his career.
There's been a lot of talk and banter about "The Slip" (Steven slipped in the middle of the pitch, allowing Chelsea to score and costing Liverpool the first league title in 25 years), but in "My Story" Gerrard describes, in depth, how he felt straight afterwards. The same feelings he would feel a year later when being sent off against Manchester United after having spent under one minute on the field.
Every Liverpool-fan will love his bashing of Diouff (who in his right mind spits on the Celtic supporters? Disgraceful), and his questions about the mentality of a player like Mario Balotelli is something every football fan has had over the years.
The book really shines when he goes in depth with what goes on behind the scenes of a big football club like Liverpool FC - what's happening in a club when their captain for more than 10 years have to ask repeatedly for a new contract, and finally getting an offer he couldn't possibly accept with the ultimatum of signing the contract or leaving? The description of Rafael Benitez as a cold tactician really is a highlight, one scene in particular where Gerrard speaks with Rafa after the penalty win in the FA Cup final in 2006. Gerrard is, understandably, expecting some praise (he has after all scored 2 goals in a historic final in one of the biggest competitions in English football), but the only reaction from Rafa Benitez is that the team "have to do better in the league next year".
The bad:
The book is bloated with long summaries of matches played the last couple of years. As a true red I remember the games vividly, but I don't really need to read about who passed who in a match against Stoke 3 years ago.
There are far too many repetitions: We can all agree that Liverpool supporters are the best in the world, but after reading the praise for them 20 times each chapter, it gets old fast. That Gerrard returns to the magical night in Instanbul in 2005 time and again is understandable, but unfortunately it's not all that good reading material after the umptieth time. The praise for some of his former teammates is something I fully understand too, but I don't really need to read about the supreme skill of Suarez/Alonso/Rooney/Torres 500 times ...
There really are some great football biographies out there, to name a few I'd go with Paul Gascoigne's Gazza : My Story (which really is extraordinary with it's describtion of Gazza's trouble with alcohol and a struggle against a fragile psyche) or A Life Too Short: The Tragedy of Robert Enke (which is more of a story about a man battling [and losing to] depression in the macho-world of modern football). I also enjoyed Alex Ferguson's autobiography (and this comes from a diehard fan of Liverpool FC).
Steven Gerrard's "My Story" is an OK read, but it lacks the extra something the afore mentioned biographies contain.
I understand why Gerrard wants to keep the focus on the things happening on the pitch, but all the long summaries and repetition really could've been cut in half for a better reading experience.
Should you read it?
Fill out this checklist. If you can check more yeses than noes, then go ahead and read it:
1. Do you enjoy reading about fooball in general?
2. Would you like an insight into what goes on behind the scenes of a big football club?
3. Are you a Liverpool-fan?
4. Are you a football-fan?
5. Do you like to read biographies and would you like to know more about one of the best players in English football?
6. Would you like to read about Gerrard's penis? (yep, there is 2 pages dedicated to an injury Steven Gerrad got in his crown jewels)
7. Are you nostalgic about football?
8. Would you like to read the lyrics to "The Suarez song" 10+ times?
9. Would you like to read the lyrics to "You'll never Walk Alone" 10+ times?
10. Do you think Steven Gerrard should have taken a couple of seasons more in Liverpool?
I'm gonna end the review where Gerrard's career in Liverpool ended, by doing The Kolo Dance with the rest of the Liverpool-squad. A fitting end for a great football player and a fine book.
January 3, 2016
Objectively speaking, it is a good read for Liverpool fans but perhaps not so much for fans of rival clubs. Though there are one too many accounts of matches during Gerrard's Liverpool career, it is interesting to see how he developed both as a person and a player throughout his entire career at Liverpool.
However, I cannot be objective when it comes to this man. This was hard to read at times (I avoid anything to do with the climax of the 2013/2014 season as much as possible) and it was difficult to read about the impact it had on him. It was also disheartening as a lifelong Liverpool fan to get a glimpse of the politics surrounding British football clubs.
The main thing I took away from this is that I finally feel like he did realise how much we valued his talent, his loyalty, and his heart. Anfield is awaiting his return.
However, I cannot be objective when it comes to this man. This was hard to read at times (I avoid anything to do with the climax of the 2013/2014 season as much as possible) and it was difficult to read about the impact it had on him. It was also disheartening as a lifelong Liverpool fan to get a glimpse of the politics surrounding British football clubs.
The main thing I took away from this is that I finally feel like he did realise how much we valued his talent, his loyalty, and his heart. Anfield is awaiting his return.
July 12, 2016
a must to a liverpool supporter who believes that you will never walk alone.
April 5, 2016
I remember once upon a time, in Year 9, having to write a piece for English Language, on who my role model is; why I look up to them, why I appreciate their values, what I take away from their life. Having just read Steven Gerrard: My Autobiography at the time, my chosen person was a no-brainer. And now, having read the last page of Steven Gerrard: My Story, I understand why, so many years ago, he struck me as a role model. Almost a decade later, I stand by it. His story is incredibly moving, his philosophy so inspiring, and fresh off the back of his shock departure from Liverpool, his career legendary - to the point of heart-breaking.
Refreshingly honest, Gerrard takes us on his seventeen-year journey at his boyhood club; the defining highs and lows of his career, the triumphs and heartbreaks, and his emotional goodbye to Liverpool Football Club. The prologue broke my heart. It truly did. He writes about the moments immediately after the Chelsea game in which he slipped - in which we lost the title-that-should-have-been-ours - and it is so raw with emotion that it hurts to read.
"I knew the glory of victory - just as I knew the despair of defeat"
And then he takes us back in time, through that glorious 2013-2014 season where Liverpool looked invincible, and in-between, we get snippets of Gerrard's past, flashbacks to pivotal moments in his career and life as he relives his own memories in present day. It's wonderfully done; as a Liverpool fan, we reminisce some of the legendary football nights as told by Gerrard, and we feel his pain as we get so close to glory, only to lose it in a fraction of a second.
For me, as a Liverpool fan, it was so much fun to read about matches that are engraved in memory, from his point of view from the pitch. One of my personal favourites was his charity/testimonial game that he brings to life on paper - and in doing so, brings to life one of my favourite memories of Anfield. But beyond the games and career highlights, we also get an insight into Steven Gerrard the person. He reveals his much more human side, both on and off the pitch, and it puts him in a different light. He's flawed, he's made mistakes and his emotions have sometimes gotten the better of him - and it's almost reassuring to know that he's just as human as the rest of us. To have him reveal the anguish over losing players like Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez, and the rage that spurs him on in Merseyside derbies and United rivalries, and his gaping sense of loss after our title race ended, ultimately shows that he is a Liverpool fan more than anything else. With every page in his book, he echoes the sentiments of every Liverpool fan - because he is one of us.
And then the ending. That ending. How is it, that you can know how a story ends, yet a stupid, naive part of you wishes for a different outcome altogether. How can you know how a story ends, and still have it sucker-punch you like there's no tomorrow. Losing our Number 8 wasn't something any Liverpool fan was prepared for. I vividly remember his last game at Anfield. It is embedded, clear as day, in my memory. I remember it being a beautifully sunny afternoon and I was in the lounge with my mum, surrounded by my revision notes that I had abandoned for the day because Steven Gerrard was about to play his last home game for Liverpool FC and the whole football world would be watching, and my laptop was propped up on the sofa with the stream loaded in crystal clear quality, and we lost to Crystal Palace, but Anfield was deafening with Gerrard's song, and after the final whistle blew, he walked out on to the pitch with his teammates all wearing Gerrard on their backs and the fans sang and sang and sang, and he gave his emotional speech that choked up every Liverpool fan watching, before walking towards the KOP that was mosaic-d in his memory, and he had his three little girls by his side and ohmygod I was trying so hard not to cry but holy hell I was failing I was failing so damn hard. And I read the last chapter of his autobiography and I re-visited that day through Gerrard's eyes and bloody hell I was in TEARS. He broke the heart of every Liverpool fan that day, and he'll break it again when they read about how he broke his own heart alongside theirs on that fateful day in May 2015.
Read it. Read it because there is so much to take away from Gerrard's story. He is so authentic and humbling in the way he talks, and his loyalty, integrity, and respect for some of the greatest names in football, is unbelievably admirable. It's no secret why he's a Liverpool legend. He embodies their spirit, and he has given their fans some beautiful memories that will live on long after he does. And so if you were to ask me today who my role model is - my answer would be what it was nine years ago, when I was a thirteen year old girl obsessed with her favourite footballer of her beloved football club.
More reviews (& Liverpool related ramblings) here: http://thesociallyawkwardscientist.bl...
Refreshingly honest, Gerrard takes us on his seventeen-year journey at his boyhood club; the defining highs and lows of his career, the triumphs and heartbreaks, and his emotional goodbye to Liverpool Football Club. The prologue broke my heart. It truly did. He writes about the moments immediately after the Chelsea game in which he slipped - in which we lost the title-that-should-have-been-ours - and it is so raw with emotion that it hurts to read.
"I knew the glory of victory - just as I knew the despair of defeat"
And then he takes us back in time, through that glorious 2013-2014 season where Liverpool looked invincible, and in-between, we get snippets of Gerrard's past, flashbacks to pivotal moments in his career and life as he relives his own memories in present day. It's wonderfully done; as a Liverpool fan, we reminisce some of the legendary football nights as told by Gerrard, and we feel his pain as we get so close to glory, only to lose it in a fraction of a second.
For me, as a Liverpool fan, it was so much fun to read about matches that are engraved in memory, from his point of view from the pitch. One of my personal favourites was his charity/testimonial game that he brings to life on paper - and in doing so, brings to life one of my favourite memories of Anfield. But beyond the games and career highlights, we also get an insight into Steven Gerrard the person. He reveals his much more human side, both on and off the pitch, and it puts him in a different light. He's flawed, he's made mistakes and his emotions have sometimes gotten the better of him - and it's almost reassuring to know that he's just as human as the rest of us. To have him reveal the anguish over losing players like Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez, and the rage that spurs him on in Merseyside derbies and United rivalries, and his gaping sense of loss after our title race ended, ultimately shows that he is a Liverpool fan more than anything else. With every page in his book, he echoes the sentiments of every Liverpool fan - because he is one of us.
And then the ending. That ending. How is it, that you can know how a story ends, yet a stupid, naive part of you wishes for a different outcome altogether. How can you know how a story ends, and still have it sucker-punch you like there's no tomorrow. Losing our Number 8 wasn't something any Liverpool fan was prepared for. I vividly remember his last game at Anfield. It is embedded, clear as day, in my memory. I remember it being a beautifully sunny afternoon and I was in the lounge with my mum, surrounded by my revision notes that I had abandoned for the day because Steven Gerrard was about to play his last home game for Liverpool FC and the whole football world would be watching, and my laptop was propped up on the sofa with the stream loaded in crystal clear quality, and we lost to Crystal Palace, but Anfield was deafening with Gerrard's song, and after the final whistle blew, he walked out on to the pitch with his teammates all wearing Gerrard on their backs and the fans sang and sang and sang, and he gave his emotional speech that choked up every Liverpool fan watching, before walking towards the KOP that was mosaic-d in his memory, and he had his three little girls by his side and ohmygod I was trying so hard not to cry but holy hell I was failing I was failing so damn hard. And I read the last chapter of his autobiography and I re-visited that day through Gerrard's eyes and bloody hell I was in TEARS. He broke the heart of every Liverpool fan that day, and he'll break it again when they read about how he broke his own heart alongside theirs on that fateful day in May 2015.
Read it. Read it because there is so much to take away from Gerrard's story. He is so authentic and humbling in the way he talks, and his loyalty, integrity, and respect for some of the greatest names in football, is unbelievably admirable. It's no secret why he's a Liverpool legend. He embodies their spirit, and he has given their fans some beautiful memories that will live on long after he does. And so if you were to ask me today who my role model is - my answer would be what it was nine years ago, when I was a thirteen year old girl obsessed with her favourite footballer of her beloved football club.
More reviews (& Liverpool related ramblings) here: http://thesociallyawkwardscientist.bl...
October 11, 2015
A great gift for every football lover, especially the Liverpool FC's fans.
February 19, 2017
Jika kamu bertanya pada Kopites--sebutan penggemar Liverpool FC di luar kota Liverpool--generasi 90an terutama dari Indonesia bagaimana awalnya mereka menyukai LFC, jawabannya hampir selalu sama. Steven Gerrard. Setidaknya itulah yang saya tangkap dari cerita-cerita fans di situs LFC Indonesia. Dan, saya setuju.
Stevie datang di masa pubertas saya. Saya yang tak tertarik dengan cowok nyata dan pacaran menjadikan Stevie sebagai cinta pertama. Nyatanya, saya memang terpukau pada pandangan pertama sejak melihatnya bermain untuk timnas Inggris. Literally at first sight, pas sekali ketika kamera menyorotnya menengok ke belakang, nomor dan nama di punggungnya terlihat. Sejak itu, saya mencari klub tempat ia bermain dan mulai menonton Liga Primer. Lagi-lagi, saya terpana. Ada sesuatu di klub ini yang membuat saya merinding tiap mendengar chant You'll Never Walk Alone meski hanya lewat televisi. Dan setelah mempelajari bahwa Stevie adalah pemain loyal di sana, saya sulit untuk tidak jatuh cinta pada keduanya.
Membaca buku ini membawa saya ke masa itu, sekaligus menjadi jawaban doa saya sejak lima tahun lalu bahwa akan ada biografi Stevie yang diterjemahkan (karena kalau beli yang asli mahal sekali). Saya juga senang sekali buku ini datang di momen yang tepat, yaitu ulang tahun saya dan beberapa waktu setelah ia pensiun.
Ada satu kualitas--selain kemampuan bermain sepak bola dan kepemimpinannya--yang saya tangkap dari Stevie di layar kaca dan saya temukan juga di buku ini: kejujuran. Buku ini seolah konfirmasi atas kejujurannya yang saya temukan di media lain. Tidak ada fakta yang betul-betul mengejutkan. Ini bisa dilihat dari ceritanya tentang pemain favorit untuk bermain bersama--Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Luis Suarez. Saya sudah melihat semua bukti nyatanya di lapangan, betapa Stevie menyayangi mereka semua bahkan sampai mereka meninggalkan Liverpool.
Stevie mencintai dengan intens. Dia tidak ragu-ragu memperjuangkan dan berjuang untuk cintanya. Yang pertama dibahas tentu saja sepak bola. Si kecil Stevie dibesarkan di keluarga yang menggilai LFC sampai hidup dan mati (sepupu Stevie jadi orang termuda yang tewas pada tragedi Hillsborough) sehingga nadinya sudah dari dulu mengaliri merahnya Liverpool. Ketika ia gagal masuk sekolah sepak bola tempat Owen dan Carragher belajar hingga nyaris transfer ke Chelsea, sang ayah selalu menyemangati. Kata-kata dari ayahnya inilah yang membuat semangat Stevie terus terpacu.
Kala itu Stevie kecil menangis di kamarnya setelah mendapat surat penolakan. Kemudian ia berteriak pada ayahnya bagaimana bisa seorang kapten Liverpool Boys tidak bisa lolos tes dan bersumpah tidak akan bermain sepak bola lagi. Ayahnya kemudian mengatakan begini,
"Di sinilah segalanya dimulai. Semua pencapaianmu sebelumnya sudah lenyap."
Beberapa belas tahun kemudian, perkataan ayahnya terbukti. Stevie sudah menjadi pemain kelas atas. Puncaknya, ia memenangkan Liga Champion yang terkenal dengan 'Keajaiban Istanbul'. Saat itu juga klub-klub besar memburunya, salah satunya Chelsea yang tengah dinahkodai Mourinho--idolanya.
Di saat-saat galau itu, ia menemui ayah dan kakaknya Paul. Ayahnya lagi-lagi mengatakan sesuatu yang bijak,
"Tanyakan pada dirimu sendiri, 'Akankah memenangkan dua atau tiga piala bersama Liverpool lebih berarti bagi saya dibandingkan dua atau bahkan tiga kali lipat dari jumlah itu, tapi saya bermain untuk Chelsea?'"
Ayahnya tidak semerta-merta menolak, ia membiarkan Stevie berpikir dulu, dan tentu saja, hatinya tertambat pada klub dengan lambang Liverbird itu.
Cinta kedua adalah khususnya pada Liverpool dan teman-temannya yang bermain bersamanya. Tugasnya sebagai kapten tidak hanya berlaku di lapangan, tapi juga di luar. Siapakah yang akhirnya menolong Suarez dari berbagai kejadian penuh skandal? Stevie. Mereka bersahabat, dan sahabat saling membantu. Ketika Suarez akhirnya tak tahan dengan Liverpool, ia meminta Stevie membicarakannya pada manajemen agar dia dibolehkan pindah. Stevie justru menahannya setahun dan berjanji, 'Jika Barcelona datang lagi tahun depan, kau boleh pindah.'
Lantas Suarez meragu, 'Apa Barcelona masih berminat padaku tahun depan?'
'Percayalah, ketika mereka sudah tertarik pada satu pemain, mereka akan terus mempertahankan pemain itu. Kau jadi salah satunya.'
Stevie juga memiliki tugas informal dari manajemen, yaitu membujuk pemain yang dijadikan target. Ia akan mengirim pesan singkat, bukan menelepon, karena itu akan lebih membuat si penerima santai membacanya. Yang cukup membuat sedih adalah, tak jarang para pemain targetan itu menolak karena prestasi LFC yang tidak lagi bermain di Champions. Stevie juga sedikit berkelakar ketika menceritakan ini, berkata bahwa dia punya kata-kata a la pedagang untuk membujuk mereka.
Namun ada satu hal yang ia tak mau lakukan demi klub--hak citra. Memang sudah kewajibannya tampil di iklan yang menjadi sponsor LFC, namun kalau menyangkut soal hak citra, ia tak akan mengambilnya. Baginya, sekalinya kau terikat pada LFC, jiwa ragamulah untuknya, tanpa pamrih. Itu sudah jadi kewajibanmu, dan bonus memang menarik, tapi ia tak mau akhirnya dikenal sebagai bintang iklan. Namun, Stevie memberi pengecualian pada Messi dan Christiano Ronaldo.
Cintanya yang terakhir adalah pada keluarga. Saya pernah baca kalau istrinya, Alex, disebut Stevie satu-satunya wanita yang benar-benar peduli dan sayang dengan dirinya. Sebelumnya, para wanita mendekatinya tapi bukan untuk dia, melainkan teman-temannya yang lebih tampan dan terkenal. Tak heran jika Stevie sangat menjaga keluarganya, dan ini makin disadarinya setelah ia memiliki tiga orang putri. Sebelumnya, Stevie pernah berpikir apa jadinya hidupnya jika tanpa sepak bola. Mungkin, ia tidak bisa hidup. Ketika ia lebih dewasa, ia tahu, bahwa ternyata ada yang bisa lebih penting dari sepak bola: Alex dan tiga putri cantiknya.
Buku ini ditutup dengan kisah dan alasannya untuk pindah ke LA Galaxy--yang saya lihat berhubungan dengan keputusannya gantung sepatu. Stevie sadar ia tak semuda dan semenggebu-gebu dahulu. Ia juga sadar kehidupan tak seindah dongeng. Keinginannya di usianya yang sudah 30an sederhana, yaitu ingin dikenang saat sedang jaya-jayanya. Diingat ketika penampilannya sedang sangat baik. Dan juga kehidupan normal untuk keluarganya. Di Amerika, fans sepak bolanya tidak se-hooligan Inggris, yang bisa memuji dan mencaci Stevie kemana pun dia pergi. Ia menginginkan ketenangan.
Dan tentu saja, kata-kata ayahnya juga memengaruhi kepindahan itu. Pencapaiannya di LFC sudah lenyap, saatnya ia memulai lagi. Dan, ia tak mau bermain untuk klub yang akan bertemu LFC sebagai rival. Amerika juga kondusif untuk keluarga dan dirinya, salah satunya karena banyak pemain Inggris di sana seperti Robby Keane dan David Beckham.
Tidak hanya pencapaian karier, saya juga membaca kisah emosionalnya terhadap rekan satu tim--baik LFC maupun timnas Inggris--dan opininya terhadap pemain atau pelatih di luar klubnya. Saya baru tahu kalau Rafa Benitez dingin bahkan pada Gerrard, tidak pernah sekalipun memanggilnya Stevie seperti Brendan Rodgers. Stevie juga sangat mengagumi Mourinho--penyebab kegalauannya ketika ditawari Chelsea--hingga ia berkata bahwa idealnya Mourinho-lah yang memanageri LFC saja. Kuotasi dari Mourinho tentang Stevie yang masih saya ingat inilah buktinya:
"I tried to bring him to Chelsea, I tried to bring him to Inter, I tried to bring him to Real Madrid--but he was always a dear enemy."
Ada satu adegan di mana Stevie dilimpahkan kebahagian setelah kesialan datang bertubi-tubi padanya. Tapi bagian itu terlalu indah untuk dibuat spoiler di sini.
Stevie juga mengemukakan pendapatnya tentang managemen dan kepemilikan klub Liverpool.
Bagian yang seru lagi, menurut saya adalah cerita pertandingan-pertandingannya. Jika saya punya kesan sendiri terhadap pertandingan itu, saya bisa membacanya dari sudut pandang Stevie. Ini juga bagian yang harus dibaca langsung di bukunya.
Kekurangannya, kamu kurang bisa baca buku ini jika kamu kurang tertarik dengan sepak bola, karena banyak sekali istilah dan kejadian-kejadian yang umumnya memang sudah dihafal Kopites di luar kepala. Lalu, desain sampulnya lebih menarik versi aslinya menurut saya karena foto Stevie terlihat ramah. Entah mengapa yang edisi terjemahan ini memakai wajah Stevie yang divektorkan.
Yak, rekor menulis ulasan terpanjang saya pribadi terpecahkan berkat buku ini. Dan tentu saja ini belum menggambarkan betapa bagusnya buku ini terutama bagi Kopites. Setelah membacanya, alih-alih kaget, saya malah semakin yakin bahwa kepribadian Stevie dan determinasinya adalah kunci mengapa ia dicintai pendukung Liverpool dari berbagai penjuru dunia, melewati batas usia dan gender. Dan betapa ia seorang pemain hebat yang hanya bermodalkan cinta dan keinginan kuat.
Terakhir, sepertinya saya harus menulis ini untuk kalian para Ladies Kopites: Get yourself a man who's as loyal as Steven George Gerrard.
Stevie datang di masa pubertas saya. Saya yang tak tertarik dengan cowok nyata dan pacaran menjadikan Stevie sebagai cinta pertama. Nyatanya, saya memang terpukau pada pandangan pertama sejak melihatnya bermain untuk timnas Inggris. Literally at first sight, pas sekali ketika kamera menyorotnya menengok ke belakang, nomor dan nama di punggungnya terlihat. Sejak itu, saya mencari klub tempat ia bermain dan mulai menonton Liga Primer. Lagi-lagi, saya terpana. Ada sesuatu di klub ini yang membuat saya merinding tiap mendengar chant You'll Never Walk Alone meski hanya lewat televisi. Dan setelah mempelajari bahwa Stevie adalah pemain loyal di sana, saya sulit untuk tidak jatuh cinta pada keduanya.
Membaca buku ini membawa saya ke masa itu, sekaligus menjadi jawaban doa saya sejak lima tahun lalu bahwa akan ada biografi Stevie yang diterjemahkan (karena kalau beli yang asli mahal sekali). Saya juga senang sekali buku ini datang di momen yang tepat, yaitu ulang tahun saya dan beberapa waktu setelah ia pensiun.
Ada satu kualitas--selain kemampuan bermain sepak bola dan kepemimpinannya--yang saya tangkap dari Stevie di layar kaca dan saya temukan juga di buku ini: kejujuran. Buku ini seolah konfirmasi atas kejujurannya yang saya temukan di media lain. Tidak ada fakta yang betul-betul mengejutkan. Ini bisa dilihat dari ceritanya tentang pemain favorit untuk bermain bersama--Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Luis Suarez. Saya sudah melihat semua bukti nyatanya di lapangan, betapa Stevie menyayangi mereka semua bahkan sampai mereka meninggalkan Liverpool.
Stevie mencintai dengan intens. Dia tidak ragu-ragu memperjuangkan dan berjuang untuk cintanya. Yang pertama dibahas tentu saja sepak bola. Si kecil Stevie dibesarkan di keluarga yang menggilai LFC sampai hidup dan mati (sepupu Stevie jadi orang termuda yang tewas pada tragedi Hillsborough) sehingga nadinya sudah dari dulu mengaliri merahnya Liverpool. Ketika ia gagal masuk sekolah sepak bola tempat Owen dan Carragher belajar hingga nyaris transfer ke Chelsea, sang ayah selalu menyemangati. Kata-kata dari ayahnya inilah yang membuat semangat Stevie terus terpacu.
Kala itu Stevie kecil menangis di kamarnya setelah mendapat surat penolakan. Kemudian ia berteriak pada ayahnya bagaimana bisa seorang kapten Liverpool Boys tidak bisa lolos tes dan bersumpah tidak akan bermain sepak bola lagi. Ayahnya kemudian mengatakan begini,
"Di sinilah segalanya dimulai. Semua pencapaianmu sebelumnya sudah lenyap."
Beberapa belas tahun kemudian, perkataan ayahnya terbukti. Stevie sudah menjadi pemain kelas atas. Puncaknya, ia memenangkan Liga Champion yang terkenal dengan 'Keajaiban Istanbul'. Saat itu juga klub-klub besar memburunya, salah satunya Chelsea yang tengah dinahkodai Mourinho--idolanya.
Di saat-saat galau itu, ia menemui ayah dan kakaknya Paul. Ayahnya lagi-lagi mengatakan sesuatu yang bijak,
"Tanyakan pada dirimu sendiri, 'Akankah memenangkan dua atau tiga piala bersama Liverpool lebih berarti bagi saya dibandingkan dua atau bahkan tiga kali lipat dari jumlah itu, tapi saya bermain untuk Chelsea?'"
Ayahnya tidak semerta-merta menolak, ia membiarkan Stevie berpikir dulu, dan tentu saja, hatinya tertambat pada klub dengan lambang Liverbird itu.
Cinta kedua adalah khususnya pada Liverpool dan teman-temannya yang bermain bersamanya. Tugasnya sebagai kapten tidak hanya berlaku di lapangan, tapi juga di luar. Siapakah yang akhirnya menolong Suarez dari berbagai kejadian penuh skandal? Stevie. Mereka bersahabat, dan sahabat saling membantu. Ketika Suarez akhirnya tak tahan dengan Liverpool, ia meminta Stevie membicarakannya pada manajemen agar dia dibolehkan pindah. Stevie justru menahannya setahun dan berjanji, 'Jika Barcelona datang lagi tahun depan, kau boleh pindah.'
Lantas Suarez meragu, 'Apa Barcelona masih berminat padaku tahun depan?'
'Percayalah, ketika mereka sudah tertarik pada satu pemain, mereka akan terus mempertahankan pemain itu. Kau jadi salah satunya.'
Stevie juga memiliki tugas informal dari manajemen, yaitu membujuk pemain yang dijadikan target. Ia akan mengirim pesan singkat, bukan menelepon, karena itu akan lebih membuat si penerima santai membacanya. Yang cukup membuat sedih adalah, tak jarang para pemain targetan itu menolak karena prestasi LFC yang tidak lagi bermain di Champions. Stevie juga sedikit berkelakar ketika menceritakan ini, berkata bahwa dia punya kata-kata a la pedagang untuk membujuk mereka.
Namun ada satu hal yang ia tak mau lakukan demi klub--hak citra. Memang sudah kewajibannya tampil di iklan yang menjadi sponsor LFC, namun kalau menyangkut soal hak citra, ia tak akan mengambilnya. Baginya, sekalinya kau terikat pada LFC, jiwa ragamulah untuknya, tanpa pamrih. Itu sudah jadi kewajibanmu, dan bonus memang menarik, tapi ia tak mau akhirnya dikenal sebagai bintang iklan. Namun, Stevie memberi pengecualian pada Messi dan Christiano Ronaldo.
Cintanya yang terakhir adalah pada keluarga. Saya pernah baca kalau istrinya, Alex, disebut Stevie satu-satunya wanita yang benar-benar peduli dan sayang dengan dirinya. Sebelumnya, para wanita mendekatinya tapi bukan untuk dia, melainkan teman-temannya yang lebih tampan dan terkenal. Tak heran jika Stevie sangat menjaga keluarganya, dan ini makin disadarinya setelah ia memiliki tiga orang putri. Sebelumnya, Stevie pernah berpikir apa jadinya hidupnya jika tanpa sepak bola. Mungkin, ia tidak bisa hidup. Ketika ia lebih dewasa, ia tahu, bahwa ternyata ada yang bisa lebih penting dari sepak bola: Alex dan tiga putri cantiknya.
Buku ini ditutup dengan kisah dan alasannya untuk pindah ke LA Galaxy--yang saya lihat berhubungan dengan keputusannya gantung sepatu. Stevie sadar ia tak semuda dan semenggebu-gebu dahulu. Ia juga sadar kehidupan tak seindah dongeng. Keinginannya di usianya yang sudah 30an sederhana, yaitu ingin dikenang saat sedang jaya-jayanya. Diingat ketika penampilannya sedang sangat baik. Dan juga kehidupan normal untuk keluarganya. Di Amerika, fans sepak bolanya tidak se-hooligan Inggris, yang bisa memuji dan mencaci Stevie kemana pun dia pergi. Ia menginginkan ketenangan.
Dan tentu saja, kata-kata ayahnya juga memengaruhi kepindahan itu. Pencapaiannya di LFC sudah lenyap, saatnya ia memulai lagi. Dan, ia tak mau bermain untuk klub yang akan bertemu LFC sebagai rival. Amerika juga kondusif untuk keluarga dan dirinya, salah satunya karena banyak pemain Inggris di sana seperti Robby Keane dan David Beckham.
Tidak hanya pencapaian karier, saya juga membaca kisah emosionalnya terhadap rekan satu tim--baik LFC maupun timnas Inggris--dan opininya terhadap pemain atau pelatih di luar klubnya. Saya baru tahu kalau Rafa Benitez dingin bahkan pada Gerrard, tidak pernah sekalipun memanggilnya Stevie seperti Brendan Rodgers. Stevie juga sangat mengagumi Mourinho--penyebab kegalauannya ketika ditawari Chelsea--hingga ia berkata bahwa idealnya Mourinho-lah yang memanageri LFC saja. Kuotasi dari Mourinho tentang Stevie yang masih saya ingat inilah buktinya:
"I tried to bring him to Chelsea, I tried to bring him to Inter, I tried to bring him to Real Madrid--but he was always a dear enemy."
Ada satu adegan di mana Stevie dilimpahkan kebahagian setelah kesialan datang bertubi-tubi padanya. Tapi bagian itu terlalu indah untuk dibuat spoiler di sini.
Stevie juga mengemukakan pendapatnya tentang managemen dan kepemilikan klub Liverpool.
Bagian yang seru lagi, menurut saya adalah cerita pertandingan-pertandingannya. Jika saya punya kesan sendiri terhadap pertandingan itu, saya bisa membacanya dari sudut pandang Stevie. Ini juga bagian yang harus dibaca langsung di bukunya.
Kekurangannya, kamu kurang bisa baca buku ini jika kamu kurang tertarik dengan sepak bola, karena banyak sekali istilah dan kejadian-kejadian yang umumnya memang sudah dihafal Kopites di luar kepala. Lalu, desain sampulnya lebih menarik versi aslinya menurut saya karena foto Stevie terlihat ramah. Entah mengapa yang edisi terjemahan ini memakai wajah Stevie yang divektorkan.
Yak, rekor menulis ulasan terpanjang saya pribadi terpecahkan berkat buku ini. Dan tentu saja ini belum menggambarkan betapa bagusnya buku ini terutama bagi Kopites. Setelah membacanya, alih-alih kaget, saya malah semakin yakin bahwa kepribadian Stevie dan determinasinya adalah kunci mengapa ia dicintai pendukung Liverpool dari berbagai penjuru dunia, melewati batas usia dan gender. Dan betapa ia seorang pemain hebat yang hanya bermodalkan cinta dan keinginan kuat.
Terakhir, sepertinya saya harus menulis ini untuk kalian para Ladies Kopites: Get yourself a man who's as loyal as Steven George Gerrard.
February 25, 2017
Mengesankan. Fantastis.
*Steven Gerrard sang bocah yang menjalani kehidupan impiannya bersama Liverpool.
* Bermain di liga Premier Inggris bukan persoalan mudah.
* Beban bermain untuk timnas Inggris terlalu berat. Selain itu Timnas selalu diisi oleh pemain bintang. Banyak ego di dalamnya.
Kabar menyenangkan saya dapatkan saat melihat kabar biografi Steven Gerrard akan dirilis bulan Februari 2017. Setelah setahun silam, biografi Andrea Pirlo juga diterbitkan oleh penerbit yang sama, KPG. Seakan sudah menjadi tradisi setiap tahun ada sebuah buku bertema sepakbola akan menyapa pembaca Indonesia. "Kisah Saya" merupakan rangkuman apa yang dirasakan sang kapten selama masa 27 tahun karir sepakbola miliknya, 17 tahun mengesankan diantaranya di tim utama klub yang sama, Liverpool.
Stevie G, layak dikenang sebagai salah seorang pemain terbaik di dunia. Mungkin tidak dalam mendekati level seperti "Messi" atau "Ronaldo-CR7". Namun eksplosivitas, kemampuan terbaik mengangkat tim, dan kinerja memukau di lapangan membuat sang Skipper berada di hati banyak penggemar berat Liverpool. Saya rasa hal yang sama juga berada di benak khalayak pecinta sepakbola.
Ditulis bersama Donald McRae, Stevie menuangkan isi hatinya yang terdalam di "Kisah Saya". Bertahun-tahun mendapati pasang surut tim kebanggaannya, pemilik nomor 8 ini tentu mengenal lebih baik isi perut tim (Liverpool dan timnas Inggris) ketimbang pundit maupun analis di mana pun. Membaca buku ini di satu sisi menghadirkan sisi emosional, sekaligus rasa penasaran akan apa yang terjadi di balik layar skuad bersimbol burung Liver merah itu.
Gerrard mengupas perjalanan karirnya dimulai dari penyesalan ketika "terpeleset" di partai melawan Chelsea, pasang surut tim bersama para nahkoda "Pool", hingga akhir perjalanan dirinya bersama klub tercinta. Apa yang terjadi dua-tiga tahun terakhir, tentu mendapat tempat dengan porsi lebih di buku ini. Perpisahan dengan Suarez, salah satu pemain favoritnya adalah salah satu hal terberat dalam karir ayah tiga putri tersebut.
Berawal dari impian, disiplin dan semangat untuk maju, Gerrard membawa pulang beberapa gelar juara bagi Liverpool. Salah satu yang paling berkesan, tentu saja, adalah "keajaiban Istabul". Di satu sisi, heroiknya tim besutan Rafa Benitez menggulung AC Milan memberikan gelar eropa pertama bagi Gerrard. Di sisi koin kegagalan ini sangat menyakitkan bagi seorang Andrea Pirlo. Seolah takdir, beberapa tahun berikut, di tahun 2007. Pirlo berhasil membalas kepedihan tersebut di final Liga Champions Athena.
Sebagai seorang kapten. Kita dapat melihat dan sedikit merasakan beban yang ditaruh di pundak Gerrard. Di rehat musim panas. Selain menyemangati pemain andalan, semua pemain di tim, dia diberikan "tugas" buat merayu, -tidak kesannya terlalu rendah- mengajak pemain incaran Liverpool untuk bergabung. Memang tidak mudah. Tapi tentu tidak ada usaha yang tidak berarti.
Di mata Gerrard, kita juga akan melihat, bahwa bermain di liga Premier bukanlah hal yang mudah. Bakat, kemampuan teknis, dan banyak hal lainnya yang saling bertautan, menentukan si pemain mampu bersaing di liga paling kompetitif sedunia. Belum lagi masalah dengan pers lokal yang doyan menguliti pemain. Kemampuan fisik itu yang dirasakan Gerrard, merupakan salah satu prasyarat seorang pemain mampu berkompetisi di EPL. Bek tangguh EPL bukan masalah mudah bagi seorang Aspas, Ballotelli, misalnya.
Beberapa hal lainnya yang tak kalah menohok adalah seperti kata pepatah "habis manis sepah dibuang", pemain kerap tidak diberi penghormatan secara sepantasnya oleh pihak klub.
Selagi membaca buku ini dengan lahap. Saya teringat masa nonbar pertama di markas Big Reds Jogja. "Stu!" kau, pahlawanku malam itu. Memori malam Liga Champions saat masih duduk di bangku sekolah. Permainan kelas wahid yang disuguhkan Pool saat mentas di kasta tertinggi Eropa. Beberapa momen saya langsung cari videonya di youtube. Seperti gol Gerrard kala melawan Olympiakos di tahun 2005. Tontonan yang berujung dengan melihat video gol-gol legendaris milik Gerrard. Tendangan-tendangan spekakuler yang mengangkat performa tim dan memberikan dampak luar biasa bagi fans dan kawan sepermainan. Sang kapten mengupas perjalanan Liverpool bersama dirinya selama satu dekade terakhir itu rasanya wow. Mengesankan.
Keputusan terbaik Gerrard adalah mendengarkan suara hatinya. Tidak pindah ke Chelsea. Meski begitu diidolakan oleh Mourinho. Belum diberi kesempatan mengangkat piala Liga Premier, bukanlah sebuah kegagalan telak bagi penggemar setia Liverpool.
Hal menyenangkan lainnya adalah lewat buku ini, saya menyadari, pesepakbola juga adalah manusia biasa. Mereka kerap tidak tahan akan tekanan, emosi, dan perlakuan negatif dari pihak luar. Gerrard menceritakan banyak inside story di dalam buku ini, momen demi momen terbaik dalam karir panjangnya di sepakbola, dan menegaskan sikap jangan jumawa sebelum meraih gelar tertinggi, dan memberikan prestasi bagi klub dan tim nasional.
Salah satu pesannya, bagi pemain muda.
"Gairah dibutuhkan di usia muda, masa-masa ketika seorang pemain bisa hidup dari kecintaannya terhadap sepak bola dan memperdalamnya melalui disiplin dan dedikasi. Para pemain berbakat yang bersedia mengorbankan segalanyalah yang akan menjadi pemain seperti Michael Owen, Jamie Carragher, dan John Terry."
Akhir kata. Buku ini bagi saya adalah bacaan wajib penggemar berat Liverpool. OK sang kapten sudah pensiun di Anfield. Sekarang saatnya move on. Era baru bersama Klopp. Namun dia adalah pemain, kapten terbaik yang pernah dimiliki Liverpool. Coba temukan apa saja cerita dalam perjalanannya menjadi kapten di sana. Salut untuk dedikasi, disiplin, dan semangatmu, KAPTEN!
*Steven Gerrard sang bocah yang menjalani kehidupan impiannya bersama Liverpool.
* Bermain di liga Premier Inggris bukan persoalan mudah.
* Beban bermain untuk timnas Inggris terlalu berat. Selain itu Timnas selalu diisi oleh pemain bintang. Banyak ego di dalamnya.
Kabar menyenangkan saya dapatkan saat melihat kabar biografi Steven Gerrard akan dirilis bulan Februari 2017. Setelah setahun silam, biografi Andrea Pirlo juga diterbitkan oleh penerbit yang sama, KPG. Seakan sudah menjadi tradisi setiap tahun ada sebuah buku bertema sepakbola akan menyapa pembaca Indonesia. "Kisah Saya" merupakan rangkuman apa yang dirasakan sang kapten selama masa 27 tahun karir sepakbola miliknya, 17 tahun mengesankan diantaranya di tim utama klub yang sama, Liverpool.
Stevie G, layak dikenang sebagai salah seorang pemain terbaik di dunia. Mungkin tidak dalam mendekati level seperti "Messi" atau "Ronaldo-CR7". Namun eksplosivitas, kemampuan terbaik mengangkat tim, dan kinerja memukau di lapangan membuat sang Skipper berada di hati banyak penggemar berat Liverpool. Saya rasa hal yang sama juga berada di benak khalayak pecinta sepakbola.
Ditulis bersama Donald McRae, Stevie menuangkan isi hatinya yang terdalam di "Kisah Saya". Bertahun-tahun mendapati pasang surut tim kebanggaannya, pemilik nomor 8 ini tentu mengenal lebih baik isi perut tim (Liverpool dan timnas Inggris) ketimbang pundit maupun analis di mana pun. Membaca buku ini di satu sisi menghadirkan sisi emosional, sekaligus rasa penasaran akan apa yang terjadi di balik layar skuad bersimbol burung Liver merah itu.
Gerrard mengupas perjalanan karirnya dimulai dari penyesalan ketika "terpeleset" di partai melawan Chelsea, pasang surut tim bersama para nahkoda "Pool", hingga akhir perjalanan dirinya bersama klub tercinta. Apa yang terjadi dua-tiga tahun terakhir, tentu mendapat tempat dengan porsi lebih di buku ini. Perpisahan dengan Suarez, salah satu pemain favoritnya adalah salah satu hal terberat dalam karir ayah tiga putri tersebut.
Berawal dari impian, disiplin dan semangat untuk maju, Gerrard membawa pulang beberapa gelar juara bagi Liverpool. Salah satu yang paling berkesan, tentu saja, adalah "keajaiban Istabul". Di satu sisi, heroiknya tim besutan Rafa Benitez menggulung AC Milan memberikan gelar eropa pertama bagi Gerrard. Di sisi koin kegagalan ini sangat menyakitkan bagi seorang Andrea Pirlo. Seolah takdir, beberapa tahun berikut, di tahun 2007. Pirlo berhasil membalas kepedihan tersebut di final Liga Champions Athena.
Sebagai seorang kapten. Kita dapat melihat dan sedikit merasakan beban yang ditaruh di pundak Gerrard. Di rehat musim panas. Selain menyemangati pemain andalan, semua pemain di tim, dia diberikan "tugas" buat merayu, -tidak kesannya terlalu rendah- mengajak pemain incaran Liverpool untuk bergabung. Memang tidak mudah. Tapi tentu tidak ada usaha yang tidak berarti.
Di mata Gerrard, kita juga akan melihat, bahwa bermain di liga Premier bukanlah hal yang mudah. Bakat, kemampuan teknis, dan banyak hal lainnya yang saling bertautan, menentukan si pemain mampu bersaing di liga paling kompetitif sedunia. Belum lagi masalah dengan pers lokal yang doyan menguliti pemain. Kemampuan fisik itu yang dirasakan Gerrard, merupakan salah satu prasyarat seorang pemain mampu berkompetisi di EPL. Bek tangguh EPL bukan masalah mudah bagi seorang Aspas, Ballotelli, misalnya.
Beberapa hal lainnya yang tak kalah menohok adalah seperti kata pepatah "habis manis sepah dibuang", pemain kerap tidak diberi penghormatan secara sepantasnya oleh pihak klub.
Selagi membaca buku ini dengan lahap. Saya teringat masa nonbar pertama di markas Big Reds Jogja. "Stu!" kau, pahlawanku malam itu. Memori malam Liga Champions saat masih duduk di bangku sekolah. Permainan kelas wahid yang disuguhkan Pool saat mentas di kasta tertinggi Eropa. Beberapa momen saya langsung cari videonya di youtube. Seperti gol Gerrard kala melawan Olympiakos di tahun 2005. Tontonan yang berujung dengan melihat video gol-gol legendaris milik Gerrard. Tendangan-tendangan spekakuler yang mengangkat performa tim dan memberikan dampak luar biasa bagi fans dan kawan sepermainan. Sang kapten mengupas perjalanan Liverpool bersama dirinya selama satu dekade terakhir itu rasanya wow. Mengesankan.
Keputusan terbaik Gerrard adalah mendengarkan suara hatinya. Tidak pindah ke Chelsea. Meski begitu diidolakan oleh Mourinho. Belum diberi kesempatan mengangkat piala Liga Premier, bukanlah sebuah kegagalan telak bagi penggemar setia Liverpool.
Hal menyenangkan lainnya adalah lewat buku ini, saya menyadari, pesepakbola juga adalah manusia biasa. Mereka kerap tidak tahan akan tekanan, emosi, dan perlakuan negatif dari pihak luar. Gerrard menceritakan banyak inside story di dalam buku ini, momen demi momen terbaik dalam karir panjangnya di sepakbola, dan menegaskan sikap jangan jumawa sebelum meraih gelar tertinggi, dan memberikan prestasi bagi klub dan tim nasional.
Salah satu pesannya, bagi pemain muda.
"Gairah dibutuhkan di usia muda, masa-masa ketika seorang pemain bisa hidup dari kecintaannya terhadap sepak bola dan memperdalamnya melalui disiplin dan dedikasi. Para pemain berbakat yang bersedia mengorbankan segalanyalah yang akan menjadi pemain seperti Michael Owen, Jamie Carragher, dan John Terry."
Akhir kata. Buku ini bagi saya adalah bacaan wajib penggemar berat Liverpool. OK sang kapten sudah pensiun di Anfield. Sekarang saatnya move on. Era baru bersama Klopp. Namun dia adalah pemain, kapten terbaik yang pernah dimiliki Liverpool. Coba temukan apa saja cerita dalam perjalanannya menjadi kapten di sana. Salut untuk dedikasi, disiplin, dan semangatmu, KAPTEN!
April 13, 2020
Bra. Likte den godt. Spennende innblikk i livet til en stor spiller. Kunne moderert seg når det gjelder banning. En del språk i boken er kanskje upassende for yngre lesere som har Gerrard som en helt og ønsker å lese om han.
June 20, 2021
Captain, Legend, Mr. Liverpool.
Emotional read for me.
Stevie, YNWA.
Emotional read for me.
Stevie, YNWA.
October 18, 2015
Five stars for the player and the subject matter. Three and a bit for the ghost writer, who is apparently an Arsenal supporter.
There are a couple of inexplicable errors. For example, in the section on the World Cup Group, Costa Rica is described as a “tiny island.” Of course, it’s not an island at all. It’s located on the Central American isthmus, between Nicaragua and Panama, as one look at Google Maps could have told the author.
Certain sections describing famous passages of play read as though the author has simply watched the clips on Youtube and attempted to describe them. He even includes sections of the television commentary. Even then, there are odd ambiguities. For example, in describing Gerrard’s famous goal against Olympiakos there is the following passage: “it was about to bounce again when, running at speed, I hit it on the half volley.” Isn’t a half volley hit right after the bounce when the ball is rising, as in tennis or cricket? Is this described as a half volley because the ball had already bounced, even though the ball was apparently coming down and thus was hit like a volley? Admittedly, this is a pedantic point, although Gerrard’s famous second goal in the 2006 FA Cup Final when the ball bounced twice is simply described as “I caught it on the rise.” Perhaps this goal then might have better been described as a true half volley in all senses of the term? It was certainly one of the greatest goals in history, but it’s unclear to me after watching it again whether it was, in fact, struck “on the rise.”
More importantly, I also found the tone to be slightly ill-judged in places. Call me old fashioned, but I don’t see the need to include profanity, especially when many kids will likely read the book. It’s been while since I read the 2007 book, but my recollection of the difference can be summed up in contrasting anecdotes. The story about the garden fork and Gerrard’s toe in the first book was genuinely dramatic. The story in this book about Gerrard getting cut in a sensitive area away at Bournemouth and the playing the derby game with four stitches was overdone.
It must have been a little tricky ghost writing a Gerrard autobiography when the previous version came out in 2007, after what he identifies as the two main peaks of his career had already passed: Istanbul 2005, and Cardiff 2006. Nevertheless, I think a better version could have been written. There are bits of the previous autobiography reheated, such as the passage about Basel 2002, Gerard Houllier, and his parents’ divorce. However, I suppose including this in order to compare and contrast with Basel 2014 is fine.
There are also some excellent chapters. The chapter on Gerrard’s injuries and surgeries is painful to read, not because of the writing, but because the gruesome detail. The section about Steve Peters, the sports psychiatrist, the theory of the inner chimp, and Gerrard’s thirty-eight seconds of crazy genius and madness in his last game against Manchester United, is also an entertaining read. It was interesting to read about him heading to Monaco with his wife right after the slip against Chelsea during the tilt at the title, and to Dubai with the players after the extended retirement celebrations, and the calamity at Stoke. For me, the slip and the flight to Monaco only served to make a hero more human. I don’t blame Gerrard one iota for taking his family to Los Angeles to have a break from all the attention and pressure he has to put up with on Merseyside, as well as the abuse from rival fans.
The book ends with a line that Gerrard’s dad often said to him when he was a child: “This is where it starts. Everything you’ve done before this has gone.” As Gerrard’s career continues in Los Angeles, and as he completes his coaching qualifications, I am sure there will be very many more entertaining chapters ahead.
There are a couple of inexplicable errors. For example, in the section on the World Cup Group, Costa Rica is described as a “tiny island.” Of course, it’s not an island at all. It’s located on the Central American isthmus, between Nicaragua and Panama, as one look at Google Maps could have told the author.
Certain sections describing famous passages of play read as though the author has simply watched the clips on Youtube and attempted to describe them. He even includes sections of the television commentary. Even then, there are odd ambiguities. For example, in describing Gerrard’s famous goal against Olympiakos there is the following passage: “it was about to bounce again when, running at speed, I hit it on the half volley.” Isn’t a half volley hit right after the bounce when the ball is rising, as in tennis or cricket? Is this described as a half volley because the ball had already bounced, even though the ball was apparently coming down and thus was hit like a volley? Admittedly, this is a pedantic point, although Gerrard’s famous second goal in the 2006 FA Cup Final when the ball bounced twice is simply described as “I caught it on the rise.” Perhaps this goal then might have better been described as a true half volley in all senses of the term? It was certainly one of the greatest goals in history, but it’s unclear to me after watching it again whether it was, in fact, struck “on the rise.”
More importantly, I also found the tone to be slightly ill-judged in places. Call me old fashioned, but I don’t see the need to include profanity, especially when many kids will likely read the book. It’s been while since I read the 2007 book, but my recollection of the difference can be summed up in contrasting anecdotes. The story about the garden fork and Gerrard’s toe in the first book was genuinely dramatic. The story in this book about Gerrard getting cut in a sensitive area away at Bournemouth and the playing the derby game with four stitches was overdone.
It must have been a little tricky ghost writing a Gerrard autobiography when the previous version came out in 2007, after what he identifies as the two main peaks of his career had already passed: Istanbul 2005, and Cardiff 2006. Nevertheless, I think a better version could have been written. There are bits of the previous autobiography reheated, such as the passage about Basel 2002, Gerard Houllier, and his parents’ divorce. However, I suppose including this in order to compare and contrast with Basel 2014 is fine.
There are also some excellent chapters. The chapter on Gerrard’s injuries and surgeries is painful to read, not because of the writing, but because the gruesome detail. The section about Steve Peters, the sports psychiatrist, the theory of the inner chimp, and Gerrard’s thirty-eight seconds of crazy genius and madness in his last game against Manchester United, is also an entertaining read. It was interesting to read about him heading to Monaco with his wife right after the slip against Chelsea during the tilt at the title, and to Dubai with the players after the extended retirement celebrations, and the calamity at Stoke. For me, the slip and the flight to Monaco only served to make a hero more human. I don’t blame Gerrard one iota for taking his family to Los Angeles to have a break from all the attention and pressure he has to put up with on Merseyside, as well as the abuse from rival fans.
The book ends with a line that Gerrard’s dad often said to him when he was a child: “This is where it starts. Everything you’ve done before this has gone.” As Gerrard’s career continues in Los Angeles, and as he completes his coaching qualifications, I am sure there will be very many more entertaining chapters ahead.
January 3, 2016
Footballer’s autobiographies are often toothless, insipid recollections of career highlights. Oftentimes it’s because they’re written mid-career, or at the very least, while the player is still active in the game; how can they name and shame their peers, past and present, if they might be required to work with them again? That’s why Sir Alex Ferguson’s recent memoir – his second – was so disappointing. It not only lacked the tactical insight I’d hoped for, but it was altogether tame, barely reminiscent of the fiery Scotsman football fans had grown accustomed to seeing on their television screens week in and out. Not that I wanted Ferguson to lambast players and managers; I just wanted honest, raw opinions; not the tepidness that eventuated on the page. Of course, you should take my opinion with a grain of salt. I’m a Liverpool fan, after all; it’s not in my blood to praise the leader of our rival.
So, that said, I delved into Steven Gerrard’s second autobiography with a touch of trepidation. This man is a legend to the club I follow; whose verve and drive I’ve always admired, and whose loyalty will be remembered forever. This is a player who could’ve played football for any club in the world, and could have – possibly should have – won a shedload more trophies than he acquired at Liverpool. I don’t have many sporting heroes, but Gerrard is one of the few. So I wanted his book to be good. I wanted it to be enlightening, and to dive deep into his psyche. I wanted that emotion, that passion, to resonate on the page. And thanks, in no small part I’m sure to his co-writer Donald McRae, My Story is exactly that. There are no great revelations here; nothing I’d highlight and plaster on the back pages (although exerts have been published in various media, so what do I know…); it’s just a heartfelt, emotive retelling of the last few years of Steven Gerrard’s career, with some flashbacks to the highlights; Istanbul, the 2006 FA Cup Final, etc.
Gerrard’s excitement at the prospect of challenging for the Barclays Premier League title in the 2013-14 season is palpable. Reliving the games, the last-minute goals, the heroics of Suarez and Sturridge, pumped my veins with adrenaline. My stomach churned, I gripped the book tighter I read Gerrard’s recount of the key moments; then my stomach plummeted when he described his fateful slip against Chelsea, and the collapse against Crystal Palace. It almost brought tears to my eyes. Gerrard doesn’t hold back. He’s ruthless in his analysis. This is a man who strives for perfection, who is aware he carries the hopes and dreams of all the supporters standing in the Kop; who expect so much of him, more than they do of any other player. He admits, too, his failures in an England shirt; not necessarily individually, but as a collective. The Golden Generation – Owen, Lampard, Beckham, Gerrard – failed to live up to their billing. He doesn’t shy away from this. If My Story reveals anything, it’s how self-aware, and how critical Gerrard is of himself. And also, just how much he loves Liverpool; the club, the place, and the people. There is little loyalty left in football; Gerrard is one of the last of his kind.
My Story is a compelling, easy read. It reminded me of just how special Steven Gerrard was, as a person and a player. It’s made me realise just how much I’ll miss seeing him in a Liverpool shirt.
So, that said, I delved into Steven Gerrard’s second autobiography with a touch of trepidation. This man is a legend to the club I follow; whose verve and drive I’ve always admired, and whose loyalty will be remembered forever. This is a player who could’ve played football for any club in the world, and could have – possibly should have – won a shedload more trophies than he acquired at Liverpool. I don’t have many sporting heroes, but Gerrard is one of the few. So I wanted his book to be good. I wanted it to be enlightening, and to dive deep into his psyche. I wanted that emotion, that passion, to resonate on the page. And thanks, in no small part I’m sure to his co-writer Donald McRae, My Story is exactly that. There are no great revelations here; nothing I’d highlight and plaster on the back pages (although exerts have been published in various media, so what do I know…); it’s just a heartfelt, emotive retelling of the last few years of Steven Gerrard’s career, with some flashbacks to the highlights; Istanbul, the 2006 FA Cup Final, etc.
Gerrard’s excitement at the prospect of challenging for the Barclays Premier League title in the 2013-14 season is palpable. Reliving the games, the last-minute goals, the heroics of Suarez and Sturridge, pumped my veins with adrenaline. My stomach churned, I gripped the book tighter I read Gerrard’s recount of the key moments; then my stomach plummeted when he described his fateful slip against Chelsea, and the collapse against Crystal Palace. It almost brought tears to my eyes. Gerrard doesn’t hold back. He’s ruthless in his analysis. This is a man who strives for perfection, who is aware he carries the hopes and dreams of all the supporters standing in the Kop; who expect so much of him, more than they do of any other player. He admits, too, his failures in an England shirt; not necessarily individually, but as a collective. The Golden Generation – Owen, Lampard, Beckham, Gerrard – failed to live up to their billing. He doesn’t shy away from this. If My Story reveals anything, it’s how self-aware, and how critical Gerrard is of himself. And also, just how much he loves Liverpool; the club, the place, and the people. There is little loyalty left in football; Gerrard is one of the last of his kind.
My Story is a compelling, easy read. It reminded me of just how special Steven Gerrard was, as a person and a player. It’s made me realise just how much I’ll miss seeing him in a Liverpool shirt.
April 23, 2017
Steven Gerrard is a modern football legend. He enjoyed a coveted career spanning over a decade for the English national team and Liverpool Football Club. Upon reading this autobiography I was interested in gaining an insight into the life of an international icon.
Whilst the book is rather interesting and plays on the raw emotions and highs and lows of Gerard's career it at times feels clunky and lacks a distinct chronological order. For instance he talks about the 2005 Champions League Final (which was the his self proclaimed career highlight) and flickers back to his upbringing in Liverpool. Another issue I found was the immense repetition of similar if not the same events. I can understand why he would want to praise his fellow teammates but reading about how good a footballer Fernando Torres is 20 times I sort of get the point. Furthermore and even less amusing was the constant sometimes irrelevant play by play commentary, yes I understand and appreciate how he his trying to get the reader feel amongst it can become monotonous and disinterested, I don't really care who passed to who in a game against Manchester United in 2007.
The positive parts of the book in my opinion are the brutally honest moments where he explains his highs and lows. I especially enjoyed the parts about the dreaded "slip" which he has been mocked about for so long. Although it was an amusing moment for rival fans it was pure agony for Liverpool fans and I feel that a small blemish in a sensational career should not be how he is remembered. In saying that he explains his sickening feelings like he had let down an entire town. Throughly reading this book you truly understood Gerard's mentality, his love for Liverpool Football club; the fans,players,coaches and his hated towards rival opposition.
Overall it is an ok read, good in some parts but other parts were just there to fill up the pages. I originally read this book to gain a greater insight into the life of a football legend, which I did but didn't really need to read the lyrics for Liverpools chants 10 plus times. It's a decent book which will help remember the legacy of a brilliant player.
Whilst the book is rather interesting and plays on the raw emotions and highs and lows of Gerard's career it at times feels clunky and lacks a distinct chronological order. For instance he talks about the 2005 Champions League Final (which was the his self proclaimed career highlight) and flickers back to his upbringing in Liverpool. Another issue I found was the immense repetition of similar if not the same events. I can understand why he would want to praise his fellow teammates but reading about how good a footballer Fernando Torres is 20 times I sort of get the point. Furthermore and even less amusing was the constant sometimes irrelevant play by play commentary, yes I understand and appreciate how he his trying to get the reader feel amongst it can become monotonous and disinterested, I don't really care who passed to who in a game against Manchester United in 2007.
The positive parts of the book in my opinion are the brutally honest moments where he explains his highs and lows. I especially enjoyed the parts about the dreaded "slip" which he has been mocked about for so long. Although it was an amusing moment for rival fans it was pure agony for Liverpool fans and I feel that a small blemish in a sensational career should not be how he is remembered. In saying that he explains his sickening feelings like he had let down an entire town. Throughly reading this book you truly understood Gerard's mentality, his love for Liverpool Football club; the fans,players,coaches and his hated towards rival opposition.
Overall it is an ok read, good in some parts but other parts were just there to fill up the pages. I originally read this book to gain a greater insight into the life of a football legend, which I did but didn't really need to read the lyrics for Liverpools chants 10 plus times. It's a decent book which will help remember the legacy of a brilliant player.
October 18, 2015
I'm not a Liverpool fan but I appreciate what a great footballer Stephen Gerrard is so I thought it'd be interesting to get his thoughts on the latter stages of his career in England. It was ok in parts but could have been halved and at times he came as an egotistical cock.
This primarily focuses on the final two seasons he played for Liverpool but throughout he jumps back to previous years and significant events and matches. I haven't read his first book so I don't know if he covered the F.A Cup victory, assuming he didn't I don't know why he didn't write this in a more chronological order as jumping back in time halfway through a story became tiresome.
It became very clear that Gerrard lives and breathes football. While this isn't a surprise for a professional player the extreme he takes it to is. Talking to potential transfer targets to persuade them to join is something you'd expect a manager to do, not the captain. Seeing this insight into the running of a club was nice to see I'll admit but he just came across as a guy who has hardly any life outside of football (except his family obviously)
His mentality towards rival teams felt like that of a child. Refusing to have a Man Utd shirt in his house and agreeing with his dad that he shouldn't have a Man Utd player's name on the back of his England shirt because the neighbours wouldn't like it is pathetic.
As I said the book got repetitive. Having the songs sang on the terraces repeated over and over got tiresome as did being given a commentary on the matches. I understand needing to tell how goals and significant moments are created but at times it was like a literary version of MOTD.
Really not overly impressed with this. Gerrard heaps praise on himself and the cons mentioned here outweigh the few positives by a large amount.
This primarily focuses on the final two seasons he played for Liverpool but throughout he jumps back to previous years and significant events and matches. I haven't read his first book so I don't know if he covered the F.A Cup victory, assuming he didn't I don't know why he didn't write this in a more chronological order as jumping back in time halfway through a story became tiresome.
It became very clear that Gerrard lives and breathes football. While this isn't a surprise for a professional player the extreme he takes it to is. Talking to potential transfer targets to persuade them to join is something you'd expect a manager to do, not the captain. Seeing this insight into the running of a club was nice to see I'll admit but he just came across as a guy who has hardly any life outside of football (except his family obviously)
His mentality towards rival teams felt like that of a child. Refusing to have a Man Utd shirt in his house and agreeing with his dad that he shouldn't have a Man Utd player's name on the back of his England shirt because the neighbours wouldn't like it is pathetic.
As I said the book got repetitive. Having the songs sang on the terraces repeated over and over got tiresome as did being given a commentary on the matches. I understand needing to tell how goals and significant moments are created but at times it was like a literary version of MOTD.
Really not overly impressed with this. Gerrard heaps praise on himself and the cons mentioned here outweigh the few positives by a large amount.
October 16, 2015
Thoroughly enjoyed the book, the 2nd autobiography of Steven. The focus here is on the incredible season of 2013/15 when he went so close to collecting a Premiership medal to his collection of awards all through his career. Spoken in his typical no nonsense and honest manner, Steven's account of the Brendan Rodgers to me revealed the following: only reason why Liverpool went so close to winning the Premiership was almost conclusively down to Suarez, not Rodgers' tactical skills; Steven was pushed out of the club (yet again) by the failure of the club to show even a shred of desire to retain him (whether this was down to Rodgers or the owners is debatable); Mignolet was clearly a goalkeeper Steven didn't rate at all; Rodgers was totally inept during Liverpools' foray into the Champions League last season; a clear of leaders in Liverpool now that Steven has gone. A must read for every Liverpool fan from arguably the best Liverpool player of all times (Dalglish was a great player but he was rarely effective in the big games while Steven was a big time player, coming good at the most significant football stage, at least when in Liverpool colors).
February 1, 2016
Being a die-hard Liverpool fan,this book showcase the legendary footballer who captained the Reds (Liverpool FC) and carried England to the finals. He was a very successful player with great sportsmanship and have having the experience of 20 years playing for the Reds he was able dictate his struggles and success throughout his career. In My Story, Gerrard describes his full playing career as a captain and a individual and shares his glorious moment and the downside to his career. Being an inspiration to many he shares his honest thoughts and reveals the obsession he had for football. Playing his first game at the age of eight, he has capped the Reds for more then 700 games and his country for over 100's of matches he is renowned as the greatest captain by many and is known as a great hero to Anfield (Liverpool home ground). Reading this book gave me an insight about his life and showed his great characteristics that led him to be know as the 'greatest'. However, the book lacked the detail of his family and his emotions throughout his career.
His honesty and his loving character led him to be a great idol to many of his fans including me.
Rishabh Nagpal
Rating-9/10
His honesty and his loving character led him to be a great idol to many of his fans including me.
Rishabh Nagpal
Rating-9/10
February 27, 2016
Second part of Stevie's autobiography, it focuses on the latter part of his career. The book is a must read for any Liverpool (rather football) fan. What I loved about it was that it is so raw, and straight from the heart. Just like his professional career and football game, he narrates his tale in a no-nonsense manner. Sticking into the people/situations that he didn't like and heaping praise on those he admired. He is refreshingly blunt about some events that others would have approached diplomatically. It comes across as though he has a high opinion of himself in some situations, but he also owns up to all the mistakes he's made. The excruciating heartbreaks which he went through towards the end of his career and the highs the he achieved over his career are focused on a lot. It also offers an insight into the head of the great man. A man who had very little controversy outside the game and was an inspiration for a generation of footballers. He played the game straight from the heart and his quote sums up his mentality very nicely - "In the end, I am a man both inspired and tormented by emotion"
January 16, 2016
I'm an LFC fan so this book was always going to be a powerful read for me. It certainly delivered as Gerrard and his ghost writer record a refreshingly frank and honest account of his high and lows at LFC and England, particularly focusing on the peak, and latter years, of his career - as honest in writing as his performances on the pitch.
For those of us who have obsessed over LFC as supporters all their lives, reading about the affection for the club and the determination to deliver success of, in my experience as a supporter, our greatest ever player, it is hard not to feel emotional too when Gerrard recounts crucial moments, from his Istanbul heroics, his 2006 FA Cup final performance and the 2013/14 title tilt, to that slip and his tough goodbye to the club and its fans to whom he has given everything.
Well written, opinionated, full of passion and pride with a good pace that kept me turning the pages. Loved it. All the best Stevie lad.
For those of us who have obsessed over LFC as supporters all their lives, reading about the affection for the club and the determination to deliver success of, in my experience as a supporter, our greatest ever player, it is hard not to feel emotional too when Gerrard recounts crucial moments, from his Istanbul heroics, his 2006 FA Cup final performance and the 2013/14 title tilt, to that slip and his tough goodbye to the club and its fans to whom he has given everything.
Well written, opinionated, full of passion and pride with a good pace that kept me turning the pages. Loved it. All the best Stevie lad.
October 8, 2015
One of the best sports autobiographies that I have read. Honest, insightful and at times as funny as it was sad. And, despite all the triumphs, I still found myself hoping that the disasters Gerrard was about to discuss would somehow end differently. The last chapter in particular, recounting those moments leading up to 'the leaving of Liverpool' were particularly heartfelt and emotional. A player who chose loyalty over money it's easy to see why Stevie is so loved across Merseyside (and the world) and it's also easy to see why he chose to make the move to LA, though hopefully in the future we will see him back at the club in some capacity. A must-read for fans of Liverpool and Gerrard but also a book that all football fans should read.
August 4, 2016
Perhaps I rate this book with a Subjective speaking considering I am a passionate Liverpool fan and Steven Gerrard is my role model in my football life.
But I suppose this book can be enjoyed by all football lover (even I don’t think Man utd fans will). Gerrard told the story of his childhood in iron side road, lifting the Champions League trophy in Istanbul, his opinion when he was on the pitch, about his teammates, his famous slipping, and so on. We will know all of that in Football player’s point of view which we can’t found in any media. Moreover Gerrard really put an emotion in every narrative there, so even though the book is somewhat thick, I didn’t feel bored and hope didn’t reach the last paragraph soon.
But I suppose this book can be enjoyed by all football lover (even I don’t think Man utd fans will). Gerrard told the story of his childhood in iron side road, lifting the Champions League trophy in Istanbul, his opinion when he was on the pitch, about his teammates, his famous slipping, and so on. We will know all of that in Football player’s point of view which we can’t found in any media. Moreover Gerrard really put an emotion in every narrative there, so even though the book is somewhat thick, I didn’t feel bored and hope didn’t reach the last paragraph soon.
May 22, 2016
This Book was as fantastic as I thought it would be. His story was beautiful and was enjoyable to read. He has really outdone himself in this book. Going through all the important moments through his social life and football career. Going through his joyous moments and sad moments. This book really ouched my heart because this is my favourite player in my favourite team. Ad talking about when he left to LA Galaxy was the saddest moment of his career. I really admire this book and recommend it to every football lover
May 23, 2016
I suppose, to an outsider, a die-hard Liverpool fan would swallow anything written by Dalglish or Gerrard, regardless of the quality of their books.
Not true.
Although much more detailed than his previous books, Stevie sometimes gets a bit too stuck in repeated accounts of Istanbul, blow-by-blow accounts of relatively minor matches and the graphic detail of his penis and ankle injuries (gritty, which is good, but cringed a little after that penis bit!).
All other details were much appreciated. Well-written but somewhat bland in feeling, this would rank on par with Dalglish's My Liverpool Home. Both football and LFC fans would be better off reading Carra's book.
Not true.
Although much more detailed than his previous books, Stevie sometimes gets a bit too stuck in repeated accounts of Istanbul, blow-by-blow accounts of relatively minor matches and the graphic detail of his penis and ankle injuries (gritty, which is good, but cringed a little after that penis bit!).
All other details were much appreciated. Well-written but somewhat bland in feeling, this would rank on par with Dalglish's My Liverpool Home. Both football and LFC fans would be better off reading Carra's book.
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