LIVERPOOL captain Steven Gerrard said he was looking forward to concentrating on matters on the pitch after being acquitted of unjustly attacking a businessman in a bar brawl.

The Anfield ace said it was the support from “family and friends and everyone at Liverpool FC” that got him through his week-long trial at Liverpool crown court.

And last night, the 29-year-old ran out at Prenton Park in a friendly with Tranmere Rovers to a rapturous reception from the Reds fans who had made the short trip over the River Mersey.

Yesterday, after three days of evidence, the jury of seven women and five men took just 75 minutes to find the England midfielder not guilty of a single count of affray.

It was alleged that Mr Gerrard, of Formby, had attacked local businessmen Marcus McGee, 34, in Southport’s Lounge Inn during a night out last December.

But from the moment of his arrest, and throughout his trial, the player maintained he was acting in self-defence.

Now he says he wants to concentrate on the forthcoming Premier League season, which kicks-off against Tottenham at White Hart Lane on Sunday, August 16.

On the steps of the court, speaking quietly in front of the amassed media, Mr Gerrard said: “Can I just say how pleased I am with the verdict.

“I am glad to put this case behind me.

“I am really looking forward to this season ahead and concentrating on the football now.”

He added: “I have to say a big thank you to my legal team, friends and family and everyone at Liverpool FC for supporting me.”

With that he was whisked away from the Derby Square court with a gaggle of fans and photographers chasing after him. The case has caused the Anfield skipper to miss LFC’s tour of the Far East but news of his acquittal quickly filtered through to the team.