Steven Gerrard has never been more nervous to take a penalty in his career than the one he notched up against Celtic.
That is the view of former Hoops flop boss John Barnes who says the Liverpool Legends vs Celtic Legends game was the perfect cauldron of atmosphere for the ex-Anfield skipper. There was a palpable back and forth of stick from the former Rangers boss to the travelling Celtic support during the 2-0 victory in Liverpool.
Gerrard slotted home a penalty before celebrating in front of the Hoops fans and objects appeared to be thrown in the direction of the former Champions League winner. After the game the Englishman couldn't resist a dig at his ex-rivals but Barnes believes behind the confidence would have been a real sense of nervousness to take the spot-kick.
READ MORE: Rangers 'all to play for' title scenario laid out but Michael Beale warned Celtic too good to lose
He said: “Steven is a very, very strong character. He handles things like that. But he also understands and thanks the Celtic fans for coming down because that’s what it’s about.
“Of course you know you’re going to get stick. He was the Rangers manager, and you’ve got Gary McAllister, you’ve got Charlie Adam and Gregory Vignal. You know what’s going to happen. They come not only to support Celtic but to support the cause.
“I think Steven was expecting. He was pleased to put it in. Steven Gerrard is probably one of the coolest players ever. I don’t think he will have been as nervous as taking a penalty against Celtic, in front of the Celtic fans. This is probably the most nervous he felt.”
Gerrard told Liverpool TV post-match: "There was only one taker from there and that's me, in front of the Celtic fans. A little bit of pressure, I waited for (Artur Boruc) to go, and you have to milk it.
"I've had so much stick off them so they can have a bit back. There you go."
READ NEXT:
- Mikael Lustig reveals Celtic transfer exit option to Sevilla after just SIX MONTHS at Parkhead
- Liel Abada in Celtic injury six word response as update 'revealed' after Israel fear
- Ben Doak lands prestigious NXGN list spot as ex-Celtic and Liverpool star joins global top talents
