Bids for Steven Gerrard’s boots, donated to the British Red Cross Europe Refugee Appeal, have reached £20,000 after the eBay auction’s first weekend.

The former Liverpool captain’s special edition boots have received 133 bids so far with the auction closing on Sunday at 6pm.

The Adidas Predator Instinct red and white boots, inscribed with YNWA, number eight and the names of the football icon’s children, were made for his final home game for Liverpool with only 17 pairs created – one for every year the captain played for the Reds.

Rob Arnold, senior service manager for refugee services for Greater Manchester, Merseyside and Lancashire British Red Cross, says: “Steven Gerrard epitomises the spirit of Liverpool. A local boy who has never lost touch with his roots, is passionate about the city and its people and recognises that Liverpool is a City that cares.

“This is the Liverpool that came together to organise the fantastic With Love from Liverpool concert in just a few days and a city that has given its support and welcome to refugees and asylum seekers for many years.

“The British Red Cross would like to thank Steven Gerrard for his generous and unique donation to our European Refugee Crisis Appeal.”

Inside the boot is a touching farewell message, which reads ‘You leave a legend, you’ll return a hero. The city of Liverpool is always with you. You’ll never walk alone.’

Joe Anderson, Mayor of Liverpool, says: “I am so proud to call Liverpool my home – a city that has come together to help and support those being forced to flee from conflict and oppression in their home countries.

“I’m grateful to Steven Gerrard for lending his support and getting involved.

“I’m proud that everyone has come together to lead the way showing everyone what a compassionate city we are; and how passionate and committed we are to helping others.’

Provided by The Anfield Wrap, it is the first time a pair of the boots has been made available to the public.

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