He was at it again a few seasons later, this time starring in the League Cup decider. His two goals saw off a plucky Bolton Wanderers side at Wembley in April 1995.
The latter triumph was under the management of Roy Evans, who had McManaman and fellow Scouser Robbie Fowler as the spearheads of a hugely entertaining team.
“I was probably just fortunate, the fact that I scored goals and I played well on those occasions. I was always ready,” said McManaman.
“To score in finals and semi-finals and quarter-finals, I did that a lot for some strange reason. You just put yourself in the positions at the time that you hope you can score, that’s all you can do.
“To be Man of the Match in these finals… before the game, you want to win the game, that’s all – primarily, I wanted to win the game. And then afterwards, if you can dictate the game and shape a victory and score goals in the meantime, brilliant. And if you can be Man of the Match, incredible.”
His consistent attacking output peaked during a 1995-96 campaign in which he racked up 10 goals and 20 assists.
Ultimately, though, that Liverpool squad failed to secure the additional silverware required to place it in the conversation among the club’s very best.
McManaman may not have amassed the medal haul he sought but his performances for the Reds and England meant he drew interest from other clubs.
Spanish giants Barcelona and Real Madrid had been circling, and to the frustration of supporters he joined the latter on a free transfer in 1999.
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