Steven Gerrard spoke of dread, devastation and defeat on Saturday as the Liverpool captain said farewell to an adoring and emotional Anfield crowd after 17 years and more than 700 appearances.

Even if Crystal Palace denied him a fairytale ending, with Gerrard unable to perform any heroics in a 3-1 defeat, the famous Kop end rose to salute one of their own in a match where the result was secondary.

"I've been dreading this moment," he told the crowd over the public address system. "I am going to miss it so much.

"I've loved every minute of it and I'm absolutely devastated I'm never going to play in front of you supporters again."

The pre-match music set the mood -- 'Simply The Best', 'Heroes', 'Nothing Lasts Forever', 'The End Of The World As We Know It', and a nod to his Los Angeles Galaxy future with 'Kids In America'.

Even if the former England skipper has heard the chant of 'You'll Never Walk Alone' more often than he can remember, the fans gave him an unforgettable rendition as he stood with his three daughters on the field.

The refrain was echoed on countless banners, the supporters thanking him for some of their greatest memories including an unforgettable 2005 Champions League success, as the 34-year-old midfielder emerged from the tunnel to a guard of honour from both sides.

High-fiving each Palace player as he moved down the line, Gerrard applauded the stands on his 354th appearance at Anfield in all competitions.