concerns behind them.Dominant in the air, cool under pressure and good on the ball, Hyypiä quickly became a Kop idol, forming a close understanding with Stephane Henchoz which helped Liverpool to achieve the best defensive record in the Premiership last season. Hyypiä was also named captain by Gérard Houllier in the absence of the injured skipper Jamie Redknapp and vice-captain Robbie Fowler.

What a signing the giant Finn proved to be for Liverpool and an absolute masterstroke from Gérard Houllier. Finnish international Hyypiä began his career with little known club MyPa Anjalankoski and he helped them lift the Finnish Cup in 1992. He made his international debut against Tunisia and his consistent form attracted the attentions of Dutch outfit Willem II, who signed him in 1995.The 1998-99 season was his most successful in Holland as he captained the club to a place in the Champions League.

However, he gave up the opportunity to play in Europe's premier cup competition to move to Anfield and at ? million was an absolute bargain. Hyypiä impressed from the start as Liverpool put their recent defensive