(via withasingleballoon, aconstantache)

3 years ago today (24th May 2009), Sami Hyypia played his 464th and final game for Liverpool FC after a decade at Anfield.

“Sami has been an absolutely magnificent servant to this football club. He came in and showed his worth immediately. He was made captain of the club and even when the decision was taken to make a change and give the armband to Steven Gerrard, the dignity he showed was brilliant and reflected tremendously well on him as a person. To spend 10 years at the same club is a remarkable achievement, and even more so when that club is Liverpool and the demands to succeed year after year are exceptionally high. But Sami’s performance levels have always been very, very high. When he first arrived people commented that he wasn’t quick - but over the years he hasn’t lost any of that pace because he didn’t have too much to start with! He reads the game so well and has made a massive contribution - at both ends of the pitch - to Liverpool Football Club.”
- Kenny Dalglish

“Song…Gerrard…Shooting chance for him…he’s going all the way!..What a brilliant goal!..Steven Gerrard makes it Liverpool 3, Sheffield Wednesday 1…and if thats the winner, it’s a goal worthy of winning any game. The first time he’s ever scored for Liverpool in a senior game and what a way to get off the mark…a sensational solo goal by the 19 year old. He just kept going, slalomed his way through the Sheffield Wednesday defense and even the cool calm Gérard Houllier couldn’t contain himself in that moment”

On 24th March 1997, Robbie Fowler was awarded a penalty in a top of the table clash against Arsenal after being apparently tripped by Arsenal goalkeeper, David Seaman. However, instead of appealing for a penalty like most would, Fowler got up immediately and wanted to get on with the game only to be told that a penalty was to be awarded. He then turned to the referee and waved dismissively, indicating that it was not a penalty and Seaman should not be penalized. He had simply tripped and Seaman had not touched him. Despite Fowler’s honest dismissal of the ‘foul’, his protest fell on deaf ears as the referee ultimately awarded LFC a penalty. Modern footballers could seriously take a leaf out of Fowler’s book and start displaying such sportsmanship rather than dive and roll all over the place at the absence/slightest of contact.