Martin Skrtel might have sullied his reputation somewhat in the last few weeks (mainly due to comments about Daniel Sturridge and Jurgen Klopp) – but we at Empire of the Kop think the stats speak for themselves.
The Slovakian hardman made 320 appearances for Liverpool since joining in 2008. According to LFCHistory.net, that puts him 55th in the list of all-time appearances for the club.
He might not be a Gerrard or a Carragher, but in a club that’s almost 125 years old, it’s mightily impressive – he’s firmly in the “great servant” category.
SEE MORE
Klopp says Mario Balotelli has no future at LFC
Ibe agrees terms with Bournemouth
Ojo grabs two assists for England U19s
Some fans, however, disagree. It seems not everyone thinks he’s been a devoted and committed player for almost a decade, which is a shame.
Here’s some of the Twitter reaction after his move to Fenerbahce was all-but completed:
Im not having this love in and “great servant” carry on about Skrtel-he was and is shite-shouldve never been allowed wear a Liverpool jersey
— Stephen O’Regan (@SteveOReganLFC) July 12, 2016
First Agger, now Skrtel! Really such a shame. We have a solid middle with Sakho and Matip, but still, I’ll miss him! https://t.co/5FwiazBglK
— Jesse [FUTCENTRE] (@BigJesseGaming) July 12, 2016
Needless to say-happy out that #Skrtel has left
— Stephen O’Regan (@SteveOReganLFC) July 12, 2016
Good move for all parties, time to move on. #Skrtel #LFC #LFCFamily pic.twitter.com/9naAxSQSxx
— Luke Hall (@hally_101) July 12, 2016
Thanks Skrtel, loved you❤️
— TE QUIERO ATLETI (@zaidiecoutinho) July 12, 2016
Best wishes to Martin Skrtel, a true Red who gave it all for #LFC. Never the same after Agger was shipped off. #YNWA https://t.co/RTTS3PilX8
— G Malcs (@g847m) July 12, 2016
A lot of hate from dumb fuck “fans” for Skrtel. He was loyal and always wore his heart on his sleeve gave 100% although brainfart prone.
— John Wyld (@KopThatWyld) July 12, 2016
Glad to see the back of Skrtel…not because he was any good. Just couldnt stand the bald cunt
— Rob Jones (@RobbieJon86) July 12, 2016
£50m for Ibe, Benteke and Skrtel is unreal, great business, glad about the buy back option on Ibe aswell. Window looking good already.
— ~ (@Spaceeh) July 7, 2016