Years: 1977-1990
Appearances: 620
Goals: 14
Trophies: UEFA Super Cup (1977), European Cup (1978, 1981, 1984), First Division (1978-79, 1979-80, 1981-82, 1982-83, 1983-84, 1985-86, 1987-88, 1989-90), League Cup (1981, 1982, 1983, 1984), FA Cup (1986, 1989)
A long-serving player, captain and serial winner, Alan Hansen is the highest-ranked defender on our Liverpool’s Greatest list.
Pore through the staggering facts of his Reds career and it is not difficult to understand why.
Eight league titles, three European Cups, two FA Cups, four League Cups, 620 appearances and 13 years in the team make him the centre-back all others in club history are judged against.
Those lucky enough to see Hansen strut his stuff note the elegance with which he played the game.
An astute reader of danger, he would so often stamp out opposition attacks before they progressed to threats. On the occasions they did become more problematic, he had the safety net of precise tackling and recovery play in his back pocket.
The package was completed by the Scot’s ability on the ball, building out from defence or confidently carrying possession forward when the opportunity arose.
“He is quite simply the most skilful centre-half I have ever seen in the British game,” said Bob Paisley, who brought him to Anfield from Partick Thistle in 1977.
“He is a joy to watch. Alan has always been an excellent footballer, a beautifully balanced player who carries the ball with control and grace.”
Hansen ended his debut season as a European champion, helping to secure a clean sheet as Liverpool defended the crown by beating Club Brugge 1-0 at Wembley.