30) Stephane Henchoz (1999-2005)
Sami Hyypia’s original centre-back partner, Henchoz kept Jamie Carragher out of his natural role around the turn of the century, meaning the legendary Scouser had to make do with a full-back role at first. Henchoz wasn’t as dominating or composed as Hyypia, but as a pairing, they were exceptional – and Henchoz’s medal collection will prove that. He got six, in total, one for each season he was at the club.
29) Emile Heskey (2000-2004)
Heskey was signed as the perfect foil for Michael Owen, and the ‘big man/little man’ combo worked effectively for both Liverpool and England. The likeable striker found the back of the net 60 times in total, but hit his peak in 2000-01 – where he won five trophies – bagging 22 goals in total. his pace and power was frightening, and although his finishing was erratic, his hold-up play significantly helped his team-mates. His lack of goals at international level hides how good a player Heskey was at his best.
28) Martin Skrtel (2008-Present)
Powerful, steely and determined, Skrtel deserves enormous credit for resurrecting a Liverpool career which looked over when Brendan Rodgers first joined the club. The Slovakian couldn’t adapt to his passing style at first, but three years later – he’s an automatic starter. Skrtel’s outlasted Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger at Anfield, as well as a host of other central defenders during his seven-year stay. In 2013-14, no other defender in Europe scored as many goals as his seven.
27) Steve Finnan (2003-2008)
While Jones was our most exciting right-back of the Premier League era, Finnan was our most dependable. The Irishman racked up 145 appearances under Rafa Benitez, and very rarely put in a sub-par performance. He knew his limitations technically and offensively, but this meant he was defensively uncompromised. A starter in the Champions League finals of 2005 and 2007, Finnan comically claimed his subbing off was the reason for our 2005 victory. “I always say I changed the game that night,” Finnan told the ECHO.
“If I hadn’t got injured, we wouldn’t have won the European Cup. That injury I got was the best thing that ever happened to Liverpool!”
26) Javier Mascherano (2007-2010)
A crying shame that the Argentine warrior left us when he did. Mascherano formed part of the ‘best midfield in the world,’ as christened by the Kop – and his defensive work and swashbuckling style perfectly complemented Xabi Alonso next to him and Steven Gerrard just ahead. Now, he’s winning trebles with Barcelona. Had he stayed, he could easily be in this list’s top 10 based on his immense ability.
