Probably the first position thus far that there's a real chance somebody who made their debut in the Premier League era will get into the side. And I don't need to give a run down of possible choices that I didn't see because I've seen enough in my lifetime to make the decision.
I think poor Stephane Henchoz has been getting a bit overlooked here. I F***ing loved that fella and alonside Sami, they were a fantastic pairing. Without their defending, and in Steph's case goalkeeping, we wouldn't of won the treble in 2001. A real unsung hero for the club and I think is overlooked as much as he is because of how good Sami was.
Before that of course was Mark Wright. One of the best defenders I've seen and the only shining light in Roy Evans' back three (four if you include that F***ing clown James in goal). Ruddock, Babb, Scales, Kvarme, early days of Dom Matteo. Just a really poor bunch of defenders except for Wright. Captain as well, a genuine leader.
Danny Agger who is fondly remembered and with his recent retirement, will probably get a few more votes than he actually should. Decent enough defender and very classy on the eye but far too inconsistent to be a genuine contender for this team in my opinion.
But the picks have to be Sami and Carra (for post 1989 - before that I'd go Carra and Hansen or Hughes and Hansen). Sami, for me, is the best signing the club has ever made. At a time when money was just starting to get mad and at a time when the foreign influx was becoming more popular, we find a complete unknown who goes onto become one of the all time greats.
Two and a half million, followed by a decade of excellent service. More appearances than any other foreign outfield player (second only to Brucie). Top professional, rather than sulk when he lost the captaincy he gave Gerrard all the support he needed and remained at the club for a further six years. Won everything with the club, with one obvious exception, leader, the last centre half we had who knew how to head a ball, chipped in with a few goals to. And the emotion he showed after his final game was so touching.
Then there's Carra. No cause was a lost cause with him, he'd throw everything he could to keep the ball out of our net. Vocal, organiser, dedicated, loyal. Second only to Cally in number of appearances. Another who won everything with the club, with that one exception. An the support he's shown the club both during and after his career is great.
So for me it's Sami and Carra, comfortably. Steph Henchoz, third choice though.
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