Xabi Alonso is the midfield playmaker that Liverpool had needed for a long time. His arrival has freed Steven Gerrard to roam midfield and utilise all his versatile skills. Xabi forms a deep midfield anchor with Momo Sissoko, linking the forwards with his precise passing, which has been a welcome change from the hopeful long balls of the Houllier era.
He came to prominence in La Liga with Real Sociedad, helping them to finish second in 2003, and was already a member of the Spanish national squad when he became the highest profile signing at the time Rafa became manager. Costing £10.5 million, he settled in quickly and has been a fixture in midfield, fitting in perfectly to the club’s tradition of skill and sportsmanship.
Alonso had his ankle broken in a challenge from a Chelsea midfielder on New Year’s Day, but was able to return three months later, just in time to put in a brilliant performance in the Champions League match against Juventus in Turin. He was one of the heroes in Istanbul, scoring the third goal to level the match and send it to extra-time.
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