Liverpool Team Of The Decade 2000-2010

Another cheap entry posted by KeCiK Wednesday, July 15, 2009 exactly at pukul - 11:50 PM

The '00s has been a period of ups, downs, and transition for Liverpool. It kicked off with a bang as the Reds claimed a unique treble (League Cup, FA Cup, UEFA Cup) in 2001, but trophies would prove hard to come by for the remainder of Gerard Houllier's reign.

Rafael Benitez took over in the summer of 2004, and the rebuilding phase got underway in the most remarkable fashion - glory in that famous Champions League final in Istanbul rather overshadowed the fifth-place league finish.

The Reds are now back amongst Europe's elite and pushing for silverware on a regular basis. Plenty of players have come and gone in that time, but which have had the most lasting (and positive) impact?

Pepe Reina (2005-)

Benitez hailed Pepe as the best goalkeeper in Spain when he plucked him from Villarreal. Some scoffed, but since his arrival at Anfield, the Barcelona product has firmly established himself as one of the world's finest shot-stoppers. Noted for his sweeping and distribution skills, Reina is easily the best 'Pool have had between the sticks since Bruce Grobbelaar.

Steve Finnan (2003-2008)

Brought from Fulham by Houllier, the Irishman struggled somewhat during his early days at the club. However, he survived the Benitez cull and saw off competition from several continental recruits to become arguably the most consistent right-back in England.

Jamie Carragher (1996-)

In the Benitez era, 'Carra' has evolved from a handy utility into a central defender of immense quality. Uncompromising and hugely passionate, the Bootle boy is a proper leader and the commander of one of the most reliable defensive lines in Europe.

Sami Hyypia (1999-2009)

Pound for pound, the big Finn must be one of Liverpool's all-time best buys - just over £2 million for a Kop legend is pretty decent value. Now at Bayern Leverkusen after a glorious decade at Anfield, Hyypia ranks among the greatest centre-halves to have played in the Premier League.

John Arne Riise (2001-2008)

His last years at Liverpool were not his finest, but that should not detract from the contribution he made in seasons prior. Boasting an explosive left foot, the Norwegian defender produced some of the most memorable strikes in the Reds' recent history. A clear standout for the left-back slot.

Dietmar Hamann (1999-2006)

He looks like an economics professor and drinks like a sailor on shore leave (if Jamie Carragher is to be believed), but 'Didi' is as tough and focused as they come when there is a game of football to be played. An absolute favourite with the Kop, and was instrumental in the 2005 Champions League win.

Xabi Alonso (2004-)

Alonso's arrival signalled the beginning of the 'Rafalution'. Although not the quickest around (indeed, he and Hamann were an almost torturously adynamic pairing at times), his technical qualities and unrivalled passing range have been making Kopites smile for the past five years.

Steven Gerrard (1998-)

No explanation needed. Life-long Liverpudlian, arch-captain, and the driving force behind an ever-improving team. One of those rare players who can win games (and trophies) off his own boot. Versatile to a fault, 'Stevie G' is the heart of the Liverpool Football Club.

Gary McAllister (2000-2002)

Houllier described 'Gary Mac' as his most inspirational signing - and he's probably right. Eyebrows were raised when he arrived at age 35 on a free transfer, but the Scot brought some much needed wisdom and creativity to a team that had previously lacked leadership and direction. A key member of the 2000-01 treble triumph.

Michael Owen (1996-2004)

He grew up an Evertonian (in Wales), left for Real Madrid in controversial circumstances, and now he's a Manc - safe to say, he's not the most popular ex-Red. Betrayal aside, nobody can dispute his record whilst at Anfield - he just scored goals, no matter who he was playing alongside or against.

[p/s: naaah.... knowing owen.. im not surprised he accepted fergie offer.
he want to revive his career back.. and MU give him opportunities. a big gamble for fergie.. for injury prone owen. Deep inside.. hate to see him wear devil's jersey. But life is about moving on. i do think he is making a right move. Even he will be hated I love seeing rafa not choosing signing him before. we deserve better than player than him.. ]

Fernando Torres (2007-)

He's not been on Merseyside long, but 'El Nino' is already well on the way to becoming an all-time great. The Spaniard filled a gaping void that had existed since Owen's departure, and he could be the key in Liverpool's bid to break their title drought.