Former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has warmly welcomed news of his eldest daughter’s pregnancy, despite media attention focusing on her partner’s controversial family background. The 44-year-old Al-Ettifaq manager expressed his delight after 20-year-old Lilly-Ella Gerrard announced she is expecting a child with Lee Byrne, her partner since October 2022.
The pregnancy announcement came through Lilly-Ella’s Instagram post, which featured touching images of pregnancy tests, early ultrasound scans, and tiny baby boots, accompanied by the message “Our little secret. The best news… mini us is on the way.” Gerrard responded with characteristic warmth, commenting “We can’t wait, great news and congratulations we love you,” while his other daughters, Lourdes and Lexie, shared their excitement about becoming aunts.
The joyous family news has been complicated by public attention surrounding Lee Byrne’s family history. His father, Liam Byrne, described by The Mirror as a ‘notorious’ gangster, was recently sentenced to five years in prison on weapons charges after pleading guilty to conspiracy to import firearms following his arrest in Spain in October 2024.
Despite these challenging circumstances, sources close to the family emphasize that Lee Byrne has maintained a clean record and has never been involved in criminal activity. The young couple’s relationship, which began in late 2022, has received support from both families, with Gerrard welcoming Byrne into their family circle alongside his daughter.
The news provides a welcome bright spot for Gerrard, who has faced professional challenges in his role as manager of Saudi Pro League side Al-Ettifaq. The Liverpool legend, who shares four children with his model wife Alex Curran, has demonstrated his priorities remain firmly with family despite his demanding career in Saudi Arabian football.
The situation highlights the complex intersections of public life, family relationships, and personal happiness. While the media narrative has focused on the contrasting backgrounds of the two families, the Gerrards have chosen to emphasize the joy of welcoming a new member to their family.
The pregnancy announcement has resonated particularly within Liverpool’s tight-knit community, where Gerrard remains a beloved figure after his illustrious playing career. His graceful handling of the situation reflects the maturity and leadership qualities that defined his time as Liverpool and England captain.
For Lilly-Ella, the oldest of the Gerrard children, this milestone marks a significant new chapter in her life. Her relationship with Byrne has been notably positive, with her partner previously describing her as “the best person he’s ever met.” Their upcoming parenthood journey adds another dimension to the extended Gerrard family story.
The supportive response from the entire Gerrard family, including enthusiastic messages from Lilly-Ella’s siblings, demonstrates their unity in celebrating this new chapter. Their public embrace of the news suggests a determination to focus on the joy of new life rather than any associated controversies.
As Gerrard continues his managerial career in Saudi Arabia, this personal news offers a reminder that family milestones transcend professional challenges and public scrutiny. The former midfielder’s wholehearted embrace of his impending grandfather status shows that some things matter more than football, even for one of the game’s most decorated players.
