Liverpool fan favourite Steven Gerrard celebrates
Kick It Out met up with the England midfielder to get his take on how football brings people together
Has football helped you learn about other cultures?
Yes definitely. We have loads of players from all over the world at the club and are always learning from each other. Football has also taken me all over the world. I've seen and experienced things I probably would never have if I hadn't become a footballer.
Did watching footballers of different races, cultures and religions make you more aware of different communities in the UK and around the world?
Yes and no. As a Liverpool fan John Barnes was someone I had watched and admired. Yes he was black but first and foremost he was playing for my team. I didn't really consider that he was different I still don't.
But on an international level watching teams from all over the world it was interesting to see the way all these countries loved the game but had different ways of playing it. Playing with and speaking to people helped me learn more about different cultures and religions.
Can football educate people?
So many people love football and youngsters will always look up to their favourite players. Because of this it means we are in a position to help push important messages and raise awareness of issues such as racism. I remember looking up to my footballing heroes as a youngster. So I know that what players do, as role models, can be copied. We have to remember we have a role both on and off the pitch.
Liverpool is the Capital of Culture 2008. What makes the city so special?
As the city has the docks it has always had new comers to the country arriving in Liverpool. This has meant we've had lots of different communities settle here.
For me this a positive thing as these settlers have all brought something unique to the city and made it what it is today.
Liverpool has a fair few Asian fans that travel to matches from across the country. Why do you think they have a special affection for Liverpool?
The other players and I are aware that we have loads of Asian fans that come to games every week. I guess they love the club for the same reason every Liverpool fan does. We have always played good football and entertain people. I think that's always going to attract people who love the game.
