Steven Gerrard called on UEFA to allow Liverpool to defend the Champions League trophy next season as he revealed he is set to stay put to lead their challenge.
Gerrard capped a truly incredible game against AC Milan, with Liverpool having fought back from 3-0 down at half-time to prevail on penalties, by admitting: "How can I leave after a night like this?"
Now the Liverpool captain, who has repeatedly been linked with a potential transfer, will start talks with the club over a new contract.
"We are going to sit down really soon with the manager and chief executive Rick Parry, and it's looking good," he revealed.
"My form has been hot and cold this season but I'm going to put that to bed and you'll see a different player next season."
The pressure on UEFA is now growing to confirm that Liverpool will be offered a wild card entry into next season's competition after lifting the trophy for a fifth time.
The winners are not automatically entitled to defend their crown, while Everton have been assured of England's fourth spot in the Champions League.
UEFA sent out mixed signals ahead of last night's final, but Gerrard insisted: "It's called the Champions League and the champions should be able to defend it."
Boss Rafa Benitez added: "Common sense says that the winner must defend the title and I think that Steven wants to stay to win more trophies with us."
