James Milner’s potential move to Merseyside has been talked up a lot in recent weeks, as Sky Sports report. The Manchester City man is out of contract at the end of the season and the Reds are supposedly at the head of the queue for his signature.
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Before Brendan Rodgers makes a move for the England international he might do well to consider the club’s previous successes and failures in the free transfer market. Take a look below as we put together the best possible XI from the Premier League era. Remember, this entire team cost us absolutely nothing…
GK) Doni (Roma, 2011)
The Brazilian made just the four Premier League appearances during two years at Anfield. He would have played at Wembley in an FA Cup semi-final against Everton in 2012, if it were not for a red card in the league game a few days earlier. Brad Jones eventually played instead.
RB) Steve Staunton (Aston Villa, 1998)
Signed for Liverpool for the second time after a seven year spell with Aston Villa. The Republic of Ireland international played 44 league games during his second spell at Anfield before going back to Villa in 2000.
LB) Fabio Aurelio (Valencia, 2006)
Followed Rafael Benitez to Anfield upon the expiration of his contract. The Brazilian endured a lot of injury problems during his time at the club but still showed flashes of his ability with a couple of memorable set pieces and a goal against Manchester United.
CB) Kolo Toure (Manchester City, 2013)
Has played a bit-part role for Brendan Rodgers’ side over the last couple of years, after being brought in as back-up to the likes of Martin Skrtel and Mamadou Sakho. His experience has proved a valuable asset during that time.
DM) Alou Diarra (Bayern Munich, 2002)
Never played a top flight fixture for Liverpool but earns himself a spot in the team for his success since leaving Anfield. His most successful spell came during his time with Bordeaux, which helped him reach 44 caps for France. He’s now in the Championship with Charlton Athletic.
CM) Boudewijn Zenden (Middlesbrough, 2005)
Struggled with injuries during his time at Anfield. However, he still managed to feature in the Super Cup and Community Shield successes, while he also played in the Champions League final in 2007. Scored twice in 46 games for the club.
CM) Gary McAllister (Coventry City, 2000)
Signed as a 35-year-old but enjoyed a memorable two-year spell with Liverpool. He helped the Reds win five major honours, including the treble in 2001. He scored in the UEFA Cup final and also came on in both the FA and League Cup victories. His 44-yard free-kick against Everton sealed his place in our history.
RM) Maxi Rodriguez (Atletico Madrid, 2010)
Quickly became a firm fan favourite at Liverpool, scoring 17 goals in all competitions during a two-and-a-half year spell with us. He scored his most memorable goal against Chelsea on route to League Cup in 2012.
LM) Joe Cole (Chelsea, 2010)
Managed just 26 Premier League games during his time at Liverpool, which also saw him spend time on loan with Lille. After being sent-off on his debut things never really improved for the former England international.
ST) Robbie Fowler (Manchester City, 2006)
Returned for a second, 18-month spell at the club in January 2006. He added another 12 goals to his already impressive Liverpool tally and earned himself the send-off that he truly deserved from the Anfield faithful.
ST) Craig Bellamy (Manchester City, 2011)
The Welshman was also returning for a second spell at the club. He played 33 times in a single season at the club and scored nine goals in all competitions. He was one of the better players in a disappointing season for the Reds in the league, while he also helped us lift the League Cup.
And the men to miss out…
Andriy Voronin – Scored five league goals in three years
Philipp Degen – Managed just seven forgettable league appearances
Jari Litmanen – Scored only five times after joining from Barcelona