'Steven is more than just a footballer'

The captain will bring his 17-year Anfield career to a close at the conclusion of the 2014-15 campaign when he will depart for a new challenge at a club outside of the United Kingdom.

Since the news broke, tributes from far and wide have poured in for Gerrard for the moments of magic that have firmly established him as one of the greatest players to have ever graced the game.

Aspinall was keen to share her own heartfelt words for the support she and the families of the 96 Liverpool fans who died at Hillsborough have received from the midfielder over the years.

"I don't know how much I can add to what's already been said," she said. "He's an idol with the Liverpool fans, he's a brilliant footballer and he'll be missed at Anfield. I hope there's something for him back here one day in some capacity.

"As a person, on the number of occasions I have spoken with him, he is a really nice guy and he has been very supportive to the families.

"Everybody will remember Steven, and that moment in Istanbul when he held the cup up will go down in history, but as a person, he is a really nice gentleman - and, believe it or not, in the times I've met him, I think he's also relatively shy!

"It's sad to hear he's leaving the club at the end of the season. He is more than a footballer to this city."

In January 2014, Gerrard made a personal donation of £96,000 to the Hillsborough Family Support Group.

His 10-year-old cousin, Jon-Paul Gilhooley, was the youngest of the 96 fans who died in the 1989 tragedy.

Explaining how Gerrard's support has been received over the years by the HFSG, Aspinall added: "It means a great deal. He didn't have to give anything, but he did it as a beautiful gesture.

"It's typical of how he has supported the families and it means a great deal to everybody.

"He's someone the city can be proud of. He's been a great role model to everyone and a good influence on other footballers and up-and-coming youngsters."

Asked what she'll say to Gerrard if she gets an opportunity to speak to him before he departs the club in the summer, Aspinall said: "I'll just thank him for who he is - the person he is and the footballer he is - and also for the support he has given the families. I don't think I could add any more than that."

Meanwhile, Alder Hey Children's Hospital also paid homage to Gerrard for the backing he has provided them.

The 34-year-old donated £500,000 to the hospital in December 2013 via his foundation, using funds generated from his own testimonial match against Olympiacos.

Gerrard was then chosen as a founding partner of Alder Hey Children's Charity.

Clare White, director of Alder Hey Children's Charity, said: "Steven Gerrard has visited Alder Hey a number of times and is a great supporter of the hospital and a founding partner of the Alder Hey Children's Charity. 

"In 2013 Steven donated £500,000 from his foundation which helped purchase a new brain scanner and create a new play area for our patients.

"We look forward to continuing our relationship with Steven as a great ambassador for Alder Hey.

"It goes without saying that we wish him and his family all the very best for the future."