Over the weekend L.A. Galaxy newcomer Steven Gerrard did something that should set him on the path to becoming as much of a Galaxy legend as he was at Liverpool: he bought the fans beer.
Though Gerrard will not formally make his debut on the pitch until later in July, he was unveiled to the fans during L.A.'s 4-0 win over Toronto on Saturday evening. To make sure that the fans were properly lubricated on our nation's birthday, he sent the following message to three prominent L.A. Galaxy fan groups:
Steven Gerrard bought beer for the Galaxy Supporters Groups pregame tailgates pic.twitter.com/i8hAKr2l4N
— Total MLS (@TotalMLS) July 5, 2015But more important than the message is what is contained behind it:
Winning b4 he even steps on the field, thanks Steven Gerrard for the beer! If u are headed 2 Picnication bring ice! pic.twitter.com/L0pKUo9ff8
— LA Riot Squad (@LARiotSquad) July 4, 2015What a gentleman. Let's break down this gesture and give it the attention that it deserves. First, the content of the message is very nice and should endear himself to the fans immediately. For all the bad attention that the MLS gets as an elephant's graveyard for aging stars and that the players are only there to cash a few more checks and enjoy the sun, Gerrard's message demonstrates that he cares about what the fans think about him, which is fantastic to see. As MLS clubs continue to try and obtain the type of die-hard fan support enjoyed by their European counterparts, gestures such as this will go a long way. Gerrard's gift is also ideal in that it is something he knows the fans want and will use right away. If only our families would think in such a practical way each Christmas season...
Second, let's break down the content of the beer that was provided. As a lad from Liverpool, one might have expected to see Gerrard provide something from his native land or even a prominent European beer such as Guinness. But no. The beer provided by Gerrard, at least as indicated in this picture, is from Stone, Lagunitas, and Widmer Brothers, among others, all of which are craft beers from the good old U-S of A. It is right and just that he bought his American supporters American beers (no Bud Lights or Miller Lites owned by a foreign conglomerate here folks) on the 4th of July.
Stevie G has set the bar pretty high for future stars coming abroad from Europe. Your move, Andrea Pirlo. Given Pirlo's tastes and proclivities, I would expect a case of vintage Pinot Noir to show up outside Yankee stadium prior to his debut for NYCFC. Perhaps even accompanied by someone from the Met to sing "Madama Butterfly." Let the games begin, I can't wait to see how these newcomers do here in the U.S.
Follow Mike Smith on Twitter @thefootiegent
He's now very thirsty and he can support LA Galaxy too, Stevie.
