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A blind man named Matthew Rhodes has painted a portrait of Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard that left the midfielder so impressed that he even signed it.
Rhodes was left blind and paralysed down his right side following a bike accident 18 years ago. He spent 10 days in a coma and was registered blind after he suffered brain damage.
And the Reds fan found a penchant for painting when he joined Blind Veterans UK.
Rhodes said: “The moment I was registered blind, Blind Veterans UK was there for me, teaching me how to regain my confidence and independence.
“It was when Blind Veterans UK invited me to spend some time in the art and craft workshop at its Brighton rehabilitation and training centre that I discovered my unlikely painting talent.
“I have painted many people before and as a Red it made sense for me to paint one of its top players.”
Gerrard said: “I was really impressed with the painting and I think that Matthew did capture a good likeness of me.
“His talent and technique is illustrated in this piece which I was more than happy to sign.”
The portrait will be auctioned and the proceeds will go to the charity.
Steven Gerrard’s portrait painted by blind Liverpool fan Matthew Rhodes
