Security plans after Gerrard raid

Steven Gerrard was playing football in Marseille when he was burgled

Liverpool Football Club is looking for private security firms to protect the homes of its players after Steven Gerrard was burgled.

The club captain became the sixth team member in 18 months to be targeted by thieves while playing an away game.

His wife Alex Curran, 25, was confronted by four masked men at the couple's home on Tuesday as he led his side to a Champions League victory.

Manager Rafa Benitez said the club was now addressing the problem.

We are keeping in constant touch with Merseyside Police Rafa Benitez

Asked about the series of burglaries at a press conference, Benitez said: "We are checking out security companies and find a solution.

"We are also talking with police because it is strange what has happened.

"We are keeping in constant touch with Merseyside Police."

Detectives are linking the Gerrard robbery with attacks on the homes of Dutch striker Dirk Kuyt last month and Spanish goalkeeper Pepe Reina in May.

'Confrontational burglary'

The England star's wife and two children were asleep in their Formby home at the time of the robbery.

Merseyside Police have described the raid, which happened at about 2130 GMT, as a "confrontational burglary".

Ms Curran said she was left shaken but uninjured following the raid.

Police said thieves escaped with a woman's Rolex watch and two sets of car keys.

The England star was away playing in the Champions League against Marseille at the time of the incident.

Merseyside Police said: "We are now working closely with the individuals affected as well as the club to offer crime prevention and personal security advice as well as stepping up security around footballers' homes."