Jamie Carragher’s career at Liverpool is legendary. The former Reds centre-back came through the Merseyside club’s academy before going on to represent the Premier League giants 737 times in all competitions. The defender’s career saw him win multiple trophies at Anfield, with the Premier League being the only medal the Sky Sports pundit doesn’t have in his collection of club memorabilia.
Throughout his time with club and country, Carragher played with some exceptional talent. Putting them into a five-a-side team would be a tricky task for the pundit, but that is exactly what the former centre-back did back in 2016.
In choosing his dream five-a-side team, Carragher made notable selections that reflect his appreciation for the players with whom he shared the pitch. The Liverpool legend had Pepe Reina between the sticks, as Carragher believes the Spaniard could have thrived in modern football due to his exceptional distribution skills.
As the sole defender, Carragher opted for John Terry, whom he regards as the “best defender in the Premier League era.” This selection underscores Carragher's respect for Terry's defensive skills during their illustrious careers.
At the heart of Carragher’s dream team is Steven Gerrard, a player he holds in high esteem. Carragher has gone on to state that Mohamed Salah is closing in on Gerrard as Liverpool’s greatest-ever player, demonstrating the changing tides of legacy within the club.
Partnering Gerrard in the midfield role is Xabi Alonso. Carragher praised the current Bayer Leverkusen manager’s 'fantastic CV,' which earned him a place in the Liverpool Legends team. Alonso, known for his vision and passing accuracy, complemented Gerrard’s more dynamic playing style.
Up top, Carragher selected Luis Suarez, who many younger fans regard as the greatest striker to have ever played for Liverpool. Suarez was prolific during his time at Anfield, and Carragher's choice reflects the forward’s extraordinary goal-scoring record.
While Carragher’s selections highlight his personal preferences, there were notable exclusions from his dream team, which sparked interest among fans. First on that list is Fernando Torres, who was exceptional during his limited time at Liverpool, scoring 81 goals in 142 appearances. The Spaniard’s impact made him a fan favorite, and many consider him one of the club’s all-time greats.
Another player who missed the cut was Sami Hyypia, the Finnish defender who played a pivotal role in Liverpool's success during Carragher’s tenure, specifically during the famous Champions League win in 2005. However, it is tough to argue against having Terry in Carragher’s five-a-side setup.
From an England perspective, Frank Lampard also feels unlucky to be left out. The former Chelsea midfielder boasts an impressive trophy cabinet, and his contributions to the national team are significant. Similarly, Wayne Rooney, another legendary English forward, could argue he should have been in contention as well, although Suarez’s influence is hard to overlook.
In revisiting those unforgettable moments, Carragher demonstrates how teammates become a crucial part of one’s legacy. His dream five-a-side isn't just about picking the best players but rather about remembering those who shaped a unique footballing journey.
Ultimately, Carragher’s selections tell the story of an era of football renowned for its intense rivalries and remarkable talent. As a pundit, he continues to showcase the great memories he accumulated and the extraordinary players he was privileged to play alongside.
With discussions about legacies and greatness evolving over time, it will be fascinating to see how Salah fits into Liverpool’s history and who will join the ranks of the club legends. Carragher's insights remind us of the narratives intertwined with the passion of supporters and the legacies of those who left their mark on Liverpool Football Club.”
