Xabi Alonso Bio

Alonso was one of the first players manager Rafael Benitez brought to Liverpool, paying Real Sociedad £10.5million to secure his signature in August 2004.

The Spanish international quickly proved himself to be one of the clubs most impressive signings with performances of great vision and passing ability.

Given the size of the price tag he had to produce and, unlike fellow Spaniard Luis Garcia, he won over the Anfield supporters with a series of superb displays.

However, the gifted playmaker endured a tough 2007/08 season at Anfield as he slipped down the pecking order, sparking speculation that he would be sold, but managed to force his way back into manager Rafael Benitez's side in the final stages of the campaign.

That was enough to secure his place in the Spanish squad for Euro 2008 and Alonso made four appearances as Spain won the competition to become European Champions.

He returned to Liverpool and despite being linked with a transfer to Juventus claimed he was happy to remain at Anfield.

The son of former Sociedad boss Periko Alonso, a midfield warrior for Sociedad, Barcelona and Spain, Xabi was one of the most important players in a Sociedad side which finished as runners-up to Real Madrid in the 2002/03 season - missing out on the final day.

But the 2003/04 was a disappointment for Sociedad. In a fall from grace reminiscent of Leeds United and Blackburn Rovers in the 1990s, they went from championship challengers to relegation fodder in a matter of months. After a decent start they slid down the table, recovering to finish five points above Real Valladolid in the final relegation place.

After switching to Liverpool after international duty with Spain at Euro 2004, he made his debut in a 1-0 defeat at Bolton Wanderers and soon became a vital player for the Anfield club.

It was a huge blow when, following a tackle by Chelsea's Frank Lampard, he was ruled out for three-and-a-half months just after the turn of the year.

He returned to help Liverpool to Champions League glory in 2005, scoring the goal which completed the comeback from three goals down against AC Milan before victory was secured on penalties.

Alonso's quality performances continued through 2005/06 and in January 2006 he scored from his won half against Luton Town in the FA Cup 3rd round and improved on that strike with another goal from inside his own half against Newcastle in September of the same year.

In June 2007 Alonso signed an improved 5-year contract, which will last until 2012.

In England he lives next door to Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta, who he grew up with on the same street in San Sebastián, Spain.