“He is a player and a person who is irreplaceable for the club. What he’s given over his time here and the standards he’s set are second to none.

“We’ll go forward at the end of the season and we’ll have to plot a way to improve in the summer. That’s our challenge.”

Having pushed Manchester City all the way in last season’s title race, Liverpool have slipped back in 2014-15 and are yet to secure even the consolation of a Europa League place after missing out on a Champions League berth.

But asked if he felt optimistic about the future, Rodgers replied: “We have to [be]).

“In my time here, we’ve lost a couple of players with 700-odd games for the club in Jamie Carragher [737] and Steven Gerrard [709].

“Those two guys have been monumental players for the club, so losing both of those is a big blow. Throw in a world-class player like Luis Suarez, and of course it’s difficult.

“This year has been very difficult for us in many aspects. But the players have given everything they possibly can and hopefully in the summer we can add that quality that the group clearly needs and take the opportunity next year.”

Should Liverpool falter again next season, they should not necessarily expect Gerrard to appear on a white charger.

There is a feeling that Gerrard could return to Anfield on loan – following the examples of David Beckham and Thierry Henry during their stints in Major League Soccer – but he said that he would only consider returning in an “emergency situation”.

Gerrard told supporters he was “devastated” about leaving the club during a heartfelt on-pitch address.

“It felt very strange. I’ve been dreading this moment. I’m going to miss it so much,” Gerrard told the crowd.

“I’ve loved every minute. I’m absolutely devastated I’m never going to play in front of these supporters again.”

He added: “I’d like to thank everyone at the club who’s helped me over the last 17 years. There are too many people to name.

“I would like to thank all my team-mates, all the ex-players. They’ve made me the player I am today.

“I’ll save the last thanks to the most important people at the football club. These supporters stand out more than anyone.”

He was then interrupted by cheers and applause from the fans, before continuing: “Before I go, before the tears come, I’ve played in front of most supporters around the world, but let me tell you, you’re the best.”

Gerrard was joined on the pitch at the final whistle by his team-mates, all of whom wore shirts with his name and squad number, eight, on the back, before going on a lap of honour.

He was also presented with a keepsake by former Liverpool manager Gerard Houllier, who handed Gerrard his debut against Blackburn Rovers in November 1998.

The defeat ended Liverpool’s paper-thin mathematical hopes of Champions League qualification, but Gerrard predicted a bright future for the club despite his imminent departure.

“The club’s in good hands,” he said. “We’ve two fantastic owners, Ian [Ayre, chief executive] underneath that and a fantastic manager in Brendan [Rodgers].

“There’s unbelievable potential in the squad. I’m sure there’s going to be new signings in the coming weeks.

“I just look at the players I’ve shared a dressing room with. I love them to death and I wish them every success in the future.”