In a conversation with Rio Ferdinand on FIVE, former midfielder Steven Gerrard revealed his regretful feelings about not having the opportunity to join Chelsea. Throughout much of his 19-year playing career, Gerrard dedicated 18 years to Liverpool, becoming one of the greatest players in the club’s history.

The English legend made a total of 710 appearances for the Anfield side and won 12 various trophies with the Merseyside club, most notably the Champions League in 2005 after Gerrard and his teammates staged a miraculous comeback against AC Milan in the final.

Despite achieving numerous successes at The Kop, in a recent interview with Ferdinand on FIVE, the current head coach of Al-Ettifaq in the Saudi Pro League revealed that he had wanted to move to Chelsea in the summer of 2005 for the opportunity to play under Mourinho.

“I have a lot of respect for Mourinho, I had a special relationship with him for many years. I regret not having the chance to be led by him because I know Mourinho would have helped me progress, I would have had the chance to win more trophies if I had been alongside him,” Gerrard said.

After the Champions League final in 2005, Gerrard was very close to Chelsea but ultimately no agreement was reached. Despite his regret about not playing for Mourinho, the former English international affirmed that he does not regret the failed move to Chelsea.

“However, looking back, I don’t regret not going to Chelsea, I’m happy to stay at Liverpool,” Gerrard added.