Liverpool new signing Mac Allister refuses Steven Gerrard iconic No 8 jersey

The Argentine was recently signed by Liverpool from Brighton for a fee worth £35 million after an impressive World Cup tournament with Argentina.

The World Cup winner also had an impressive season with Brighton, helping them qualify for European football next season.

The former Brighton midfielder was offered the No 8 jersey by Liverpool which was worn by iconic midfielder Steve Gerrard but rejected it and opted for the No 10 jersey instead.

Liverpool's new signing has explained the reason behind him rejecting the number after he was offered the jersey by the club.

According to Alexis Mac Allister, he turned down the No. 8 jersey at Liverpool because of the number's association with club legend Steven Gerrard in the past.

Although Mac Allister said he had the option of wearing the No. 8 jersey in Naby Keita's absence, he chose to wear No. 10 for Liverpool.

Speaking in an interview with the Mirror, Mac Allister said, “One day, I was talking to my dad when he asked me what number I would wear for Liverpool.

“I knew there were several numbers available - including 10 and 8. The number eight shirt is a very important number in that club because of Gerrard, so I hesitated a bit. 

“I ended up choosing the 10, but eight is a number that I like a lot and has a history at the club.”

The World Cup champion midfielder explained that Manchester United was also interested in him, but that he believes joining Liverpool was the ideal move for his development.

Still speaking, as reported by the Daily Mail, he said, “After the season ended, I had the chance to talk to Klopp and he told me about the club, the city and what he wanted. 

“The main thing was that from the first moment, they communicated with my family and with me, they wanted me to be there.

“When I was able to speak with the coach, it was made even clearer. It's the small details that made me choose Liverpool. I feel that it is the right step in my career.”