This was a close call between Hamann and Mascherano, but the fact that the German did it over a longer period of time gives him the edge. Between 1999 and 2006 he was a mainstay of the side, and brought a huge amount of quality to Liverpool's midfield. He was the ultimate unsung hero. Cultured on the ball, tall in stature and terrific defensively, Hamann often just sat in front of the back four, allowing more attack-minded midfielders to push on and not worry too much about their defensive duties. Whenever he played, there was always an air of calm and composure about Liverpool's game. He was a key member of Houllier's side that won the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and League Cup in 2000/01, appearing 53 times, and he won a further FA Cup (2006) and League Cup (2003) during his time on Merseyside. His performance in the 2005 Champions League Final will always go down in legend, with his half-time introduction completely changing the complexion of the game with Liverpool 3-0 down. He also scored the Reds' opening penalty in the triumphant shootout. An understated presence, Hamann was an extremely popular, effective player at Anfield.
