The England midfielder was found not guilty by a jury at Liverpool Crown Court over the incident which occurred in December.

Gerrard apologized for punching Marcus McGee, 34, but insisted he was acting in self-defense.

The saga erupted when Gerrard, who was celebrating Liverpool's 5-1 Premiership victory over Newcastle United, wanted to change the music on the CD player.

McGee, the man holding the control, did not grant him his wish to infuriate the 29-year-old and five of his friends, who admitted affray before the court.

"It was very difficult at the time to explain to police why I did throw that first punch. We were arguing and I told the police I felt that Marcus came towards me and that’s why I raised my arms," Gerrard told the court.

"I firmly believed Marcus came towards me to hit me."