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Donovan reveals why Gerrard's Galaxy struggles are just like Man Utd legend Beckham's
STEVEN GERRARD is still adapting to life away from the Premier League, claims former LA Galaxy player Landon Donovan.
Landon Donovan (right) and Steven Gerrard played each other at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa
Gerrard, 35, quit Liverpool in the summer to join MLS side Los Angeles on an 18-month deal.
He made 18 appearances for the Galaxy in his first season, scoring three goals.
David Beckham initially struggled at LA Galaxy when he signed in 2007
And ex-USA international Donavon says the former England captain will take time to hit top form in the MLS, just as Manchester United legend David Beckham did when he arrived in America from Real Madrid back in 2007.
“As Gerrard said, it is difficult to adjust, I think David Beckham went through it too when he first came," Donovan said.
"For most people, the league is more difficult than they think.
"It is not necessarily better quality than where they come from, but it is a very fast-paced, physical league.
“When you couple the travelling and the heat and different things, it makes it difficult.
"Robbie Keane was a bit of an anomaly — he fit in straight away and didn’t seem to miss a beat.
"But I think Gerrard has enjoyed it and will come back next year much better.”
5 Reasons why Gerrard should return to Liverpool
There were reports earlier this autumn that Gerrard was eyeing a return to Liverpool on a playing basis until the start of the new MLS season.
The Kop legend was at Anfield to watch their 2-1 defeat to Crystal Palace before the international break.
But Liverpool insist they have no plans to re-sign Gerrard even for a short period as new manager Jurgen Klopp prepares to restructure his side come January.
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