Anthony Gerrard

Everton

Born in Huyton, Merseyside, Gerrard joined his boyhood club, Everton Academy at age eight and appeared as captain for the youth academy at one point. His performance in the academy led Gerrard to sign his first professional contract in May 2004 After signing a professional contract with the club, Gerrard went on trial with clubs based in the National League and his impressive performance at the trial led him to be sent out on loan for a month to Accrington Stanley on 6 September 2004. Gerrard made an impressive display at Accrington Stanley and was keen on extending his loan spell for another month. However, this never happened and he returned to Everton. After returning to Everton, his return was soon short-lived when he suffered a knee injury whilst playing in the reserve., The injury was initially believed to be serious, but Gerrard managed to make a recovery Later the same season, he was sent out on loan, this time to Paul Merson's Walsall. Gerrard made his Walsall debut two days later on 26 March 2005, playing 90 minutes, in a 1–0 loss against Oldham Athletic. Gerrard made a name for himself and impressed there, as he went on to make eight appearances. Gerrard was released by Everton at the end of the 2004–05 season.

Walsall

Weeks after being released by Everton, Gerrard signed for Walsall alongside Everton youth teammate Danny Fox. Gerrard 's first appearance after signing for the club on a permanent basis came in the opening match of the…

Born in England, Gerrard qualifies for the Republic of Ireland, through his grandparents. He represented the Republic of Ireland's under-18 team earlier in his career. On 4 March 2011, Gerrard pledged his allegiance to the Republic of Ireland and said "I pledged my allegiance to the Republic and I would love the chance to play for the senior squad." In April 2011, Gerrard received full clearance to play for the Republic of Ireland.

As of match played 29 February 2020

Gerrard and his wife, Laura, have two sons and one daughter. Gerrard is a cousin of former England captain Steven Gerrard. Gerrard is also a cousin of Jon-Paul Gilhooley, who was the youngest of the 97 victims of the Hillsborough disaster on 15 April 1989. Gerrard is also good friends with Danny Fox, having played together at Walsall and Everton. Despite progressing through the Everton Academy, Gerrard grew up supporting Liverpool.