ALBERT RIERA

Spanish winger Albert Riera arrived from Espanyol in September 2008.

The left sider had a point to prove in English football following an unspectacular loan spell at Man City in 2005-06 - and he wasted no time convincing the Kop.

An impressive debut in a 2-1 victory over Man Utd on September 13 was followed a few weeks later with a first goal against Wigan Athletic.

Riera began his career with Real Mallorca before trying his luck in France with Bordeaux for two years.

He returned to Spain with Espanyol in 2005 where, after his City loan, he wowed fans with his traditional brand of wingplay.

Like teammate Steven Gerrard, Riera can boast a goal in a UEFA Cup final. However, unlike Stevie, it was a bitter-sweet occasion for the winger, with Espanyol losing on penalties to Seville in 2007.

Riera marked his international debut with a goal against Denmark in October 2007.