Cakes, Tears and Joey Barton: Twitter Reacts to Steven Gerrard Press Conference

After a glittering 17-year career at Anfield, Steven Gerrard will feature in his final home game on Saturday evening when Crystal Palace come to Merseyside.

Stevie G held a pre-match press conference at Melwood on Thursday, which was "packed" with middle-age men in suits keen to hear his thoughts on the conclusion of his Premier League career...

One of the most salient points Gerrard made concerned his team-mate Raheem Sterling and how he must stay at Liverpool or risk destroying his career... 

Gerrard's assertion that Sterling would be better off staying at Liverpool was met with some mockery and criticism... 

"

Gerrard: "My advice to Raheem is he should quit Liverpool. He doesnt want to be stuck here and win nothing like me."

— Greedy Sterling (@greedysterling) May 14, 2015"

Gerrard also took the time to discuss his biggest influences...

When the Liverpool captain was asked about his favourite goal, he picked his famous strike against Olympiakos in 2004 that kept the Reds in the Champions League. His fans seemed to agree with his choice...

"

Every time I see Gerrard's goal against olympiakos I get a little tear in the eye 

— Dylan F (@delboy411) May 14, 2015"

Gerrard admitted that he hopes to avoid the water works on Saturday, but if he starts crying, he will probably set off a tear duct chain reaction all around the world...

As touching tributes poured in, Joey Barton's stood out...

Of course, the outspoken Queens Park Rangers midfielder couldn't help but pair his compliments with a joke at Gerrard's expense...

The reaction to Barton's comments was typically diverse...

The presser concluded in a rather unusual manner, with local journalists offering their interviewee a selection of cakes. It's a strange gift to offer a professional footballer a few days before a big game, but it was certainly appreciated...

Upon seeing the baked goods, fans on Twitter provided the proverbial icing on the cake...

"

Paul Scholes was winning titles for United when he was 38, while Gerrard is busy eating cakes.

— Rojuan (@ro_juan27) May 14, 2015"

"

The cake Gerrard should have been given…. pic.twitter.com/UtYKVbUmnO

— Yakatak Football (@YakatakFootball) May 14, 2015"

Away from the gathering at Melwood, Gerrard gave an interview that is set to be broadcast on BBC's Football Focus this weekend. In it, he admitted his single regret during his time at Liverpool...

Failing to win the league might fill Gerrard with remorse, but is it any more regrettable than this recent photoshoot?  

Tom Shaw/Getty Images

Time will tell.

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