Ask Liverpool fans who their favourite player of the last decade or so is and beyond Steven Gerrard and perhaps Luis Suarez (who has dug them out of a few scraps in recent times) most will tell you that it’s their ex-midfield ace, Xabi Alonso. The former Rafa Benitez signing left Anfield with quite a reputation and has continued to adhere himself to fans by making pleasing comments about the club. He seems to be a genuine Liverpool fan.
Of course, since leaving Liverpool, he’s gone on to help make Real Madrid’s midfield a genuine threat. He’s been a mainstay at the Bernabeu, despite being surrounded by outrageously talented players like Kaka, Mesut Ozil and more.
The old pass-master, now 30-years-old, is still one of the world’s best midfielders. Indeed, last season he played his 100th game for Real Madrid and claimed the first league title of his career. There seems to be no stopping him.
And now there’s talk of him considering a move back to the Premier League. I’m sure the very thought is enough to get Liverpool fans shaking with excitement. According to the Daily Mail, Xabi is in the middle of a contract stand-off with Madrid. He’s reported to be keen to agree new terms, but Real are thought to be unwilling to start talks until the summer.
I thought it was the player who usually plays fast and loose? Regardless, it has been suggested that Alonso is now ready to consider his options, and with his Real contract up in 2014, Liverpool may be on his list.
I have to say, Liverpool could use some inspiration in the centre of the park. Nuri Sahin won’t be around forever, Steven Gerrard is only getting older and there’s a lot of pressure on Joe Allen’s shoulders. A midfield signing could help shake some life into the club.
Especially if it brought back to the club a beloved and talented player. It would mark a turn-around in the fortunes of Liverpool in the transfer market. It could trigger a return to the good old days, when the club were title-challengers and competed in the Champions League. Let’s not forget, these are days that Xabi Alonso played a major role in.
Like Gerrard, Alonso is aging, but his passing game ensures he’ll maintain a high level of craft up until his retirement (like, say, Andrea Pirlo). If he is available, I hope that Brendan Rodgers picks up the phone.
What’s your take? Should Liverpool swoop for this blast from the past?
Please follow @ThePerfectPass for more football related action!
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.