Steven Gerrard's dad had to use an underworld 'fixer' to stop a gangster from shooting the England and Liverpool midfielder in the legs.
Mr Gerrard wrote to a court where John Kinsella, the so-called fixer, is on trial for being part of a gang robbery.
He said that the Liverpool star's car had been smashed up as he drove home from a training session and the problems and intimidation only ended when he contacted Mr Kinsella.
While Liverpool football club had provided extra security, he also called police.
"I would like to say that in 2001 my son Steven was being terrorised by a notorious Liverpool gangster known as The Psycho, who was threatening to maim my son by shooting him in the legs," the letter from Mr Gerrard read.
"Also, he was trying to extort a large amount of money from Steven. We immediately contacted the police and asked for protection," he added.
"John then reassured me and my family he would resolve our nightmare. We have never had any more problems from the Liverpool underworld. Steven and I have total respect for John," said Mr Gerrard.
Mr Kinsella of Liverpool denies robbery and a charge of dangerous driving.
James Muldoon, 28 and Stephen McMullen, 49, both of Liverpool also deny robbery while Thomas Hodgson, 29, of Liverpool has admitted one charge of robbery.
The trial continues.
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21 October 2010
21 October 2010
21 October 2010
20 October 2010
20 October 2010
