Congrats to SG & Alex

Daughter delight for star Gerrard

May 9 2006

By Greg O'Keeffe, Liverpool Echo

STEVEN GERRARD today became a father for the second time after his fiancZe gave birth to a healthy baby girl.

The Liverpool captain's partner, Alex Curran, 23, gave birth to 7lb 6oz Lexie after being induced at Liverpool's women's hospital this morning.

Gerrard, 25, already father to two-year-old Lilly-Ella, is under-stood to have been at Alex's side for the birth.

A spokeswoman for the couple today said the pair were "absolutely delighted."

It is understood the couple had requested the baby be induced before Gerrard travels to Germany to join the England World Cup squad.

Gerrard is keen for Alex to be fit enough to join him as he prepares for the World Cup so the family can spend time together between matches.

Justine Mills, owner of Liverpool fashion store Cricket, was among the first to congratulate the couple on the birth.

Style icon Alex is a regular at the Mathew Street store and often brings Lilly-Ella with her.

Mrs Mills said: "I'm so pleased the baby has been born healthy and they've chosen a lovely name for her.

"It's going to be nice for Lilly-Ella to have a little sister and I hope we'll get to meet Lexie soon."

Thomas Stevens's mother-in-law, Gwen Hogg, was at the women's hospital while her daughter Gillian gave birth and bumped into Gerrard in the corridor.

The Reds star, who is also hoping to lead the Reds to victory in Saturday's FA Cup Final against West Ham in Cardiff, was happy to chat and sign an autograph while he waited for Lexie to be born.

Mr Stevens said: "Apparently he seemed really happy and relaxed. He said they are inducing the baby so he can spend some time with the tot and Alex before the World Cup.

"He'll be glad Lexie was born before he has to head to Cardiff for the FA Cup Final too."