Sami Hyypia Bio

Hyypia's performances for Liverpool since joining the club from Willem II earned him a reputation as one of the Premier Leagues best defenders but as his contract draws to a close under the reign of Rafa Benitez he has become more of a peripheral, if still influential, player.

Calm on the ball, commanding in the air, strong in the tackle and with leadership qualities, he was the bedrock of the Reds back line from the beginning of the 1999/2000 season. And although the Finnish international is reaching the twilight of his professional career, he continues to be a reliable player for Liverpool.

After fading from the picture following the arrival of young centre-half Daniel Agger in January 2006 but a long-term injury to the Danish defender allowed Hyypia to re-establish himself in the first-team.

With Slovakian international Martin Skrtel arriving at the club in January 2008, and Agger now fit, Hyypia looks set for a bit-part role at Anfield. However, the big Finn has a collection of winner's medals that has already established him as a Liverpool legend.

Hyypia shared the captaincy at Anfield with Robbie Fowler during the 2000/01 treble season when the Reds won the Worthington Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup.

The centre-back relinquished the captain's armband at the start of the 2003/04 season after a dip in form. Manager Gerard Houllier believed the change would help the Finn rediscover his best form.

In 2004, new Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez moved Jamie Carragher from fullback to partner Hyypia in central defence - a move that rejuvenated the centre-back. And he was back to his best as Liverpool amazingly won the Champions League in 2004/05.

Hyypia passed 390 games for Liverpool in 2006/07 and climbed into the top 25 in the club's all-time appearances table.

The Finnish defender began his career with MyPa Anjalankoski and his form for club and country attracted the attentions of Dutch outfit Willem II who signed him in 1995.

He captained Willem II to a place in the Champions League for the following season.

Hyypia was spotted by Liverpool chief scout Ron Yeats during a friendly game for Finland against Germany and he signed for the club in the summer of 1999. His partnership with fellow new signing Stephane Henchoz was superb.

Hyypia is still a dominant presence and his height enables him to win most aerial challenges and offer a goal threat from corners and set pieces.