Jamie Carragher
Liverpool Football Club, one of the most decorated football clubs in the world, has seen countless legends don the iconic red shirt. From goalkeepers who performed impossible saves to forwards who dazzled fans with sublime finishing, the club’s history is filled with players whose impact on the pitch was immeasurable. And who better to pick Liverpool’s greatest-ever XI than Jamie Carragher, a man who made 737 appearances for the Reds and is second only to Ian Callaghan in the club’s all-time appearances list?
On the Stick to Football podcast, Carragher shared his thoughts on the players he believes are deserving of a spot in Liverpool’s greatest ever XI. While this kind of selection always sparks debate, there’s no doubt that Carragher’s picks are built on experience and deep knowledge of Liverpool’s storied history. His lineup features players from different eras of Liverpool’s dominance, a perfect blend of those who helped establish the club as a European powerhouse and those who continue to add to its legacy today.
Let’s dive into the team Carragher picked, position by position, and explore why each player earned his spot.
Goalkeeper: Ray Clemence
When starting his XI, Carragher immediately faced a tough choice between two of Liverpool’s most iconic goalkeepers: Ray Clemence and Alisson Becker. Ultimately, Carragher gave Clemence the nod, citing the goalkeeper’s sheer number of trophies won during his time at Anfield.
Ray Clemence, who made 665 appearances for the Reds between 1967 and 1981, was instrumental in Liverpool’s dominance in the 1970s and early 1980s. He won five league titles, three European Cups, two UEFA Cups, and countless domestic trophies during his time at the club. Clemence’s composure, shot-stopping ability, and knack for performing in the biggest moments made him a standout for Carragher.
While Alisson’s brilliance has been key to Liverpool’s recent successes, including a Premier League title and Champions League win, Clemence’s incredible trophy haul and longevity with the club gave him the edge in Carragher’s all-time XI.
Right-Back: Phil Neal
Liverpool has been blessed with two standout right-backs in its history, and Carragher found himself torn between Phil Neal and current star Trent Alexander-Arnold. Ultimately, he chose Neal, largely due to his unprecedented success in European competition.
Neal, who played for Liverpool from 1974 to 1985, won an incredible four European Cups and eight league titles with the club. His consistency, leadership, and ability to contribute both defensively and offensively made him one of the greatest full-backs in the club’s history. Carragher acknowledged that while Trent may one day surpass Neal, his inclusion of the legendary defender in his XI was a recognition of Neal’s accomplishments and impact on Liverpool’s European success.
Centre-Backs: Virgil van Dijk and Alan Hansen
When it came to central defense, Carragher had little hesitation in naming Virgil van Dijk and Alan Hansen as his ideal pairing.
Van Dijk, who joined Liverpool in January 2018, has transformed the club’s defense with his commanding presence, leadership, and technical ability. His role in Liverpool’s Premier League and Champions League triumphs under Jürgen Klopp is well-documented. Widely regarded as one of the best defenders in the world, Van Dijk’s inclusion in Carragher’s XI is a testament to the Dutchman’s monumental impact since his arrival.
Partnering Van Dijk in Carragher’s team is Alan Hansen, a man synonymous with Liverpool’s dominance in the late 1970s and 1980s. Hansen, known for his composure on the ball and impeccable reading of the game, won eight league titles and three European Cups during his time at Anfield. His partnership with Van Dijk in Carragher’s team is the perfect blend of modern defensive solidity and old-school football intelligence.
Left-Back: Steve Nicol
Although Andy Robertson has established himself as one of the finest left-backs in world football in recent years, Carragher opted to go with Steve Nicol for his all-time XI.
Nicol, who played for Liverpool between 1981 and 1995, was one of the most versatile players to ever wear the Liverpool shirt. A right-back by trade, Nicol was also adept at playing on the left and even in central defense. Carragher lauded Nicol for his consistency and versatility, qualities that made him an integral part of the Liverpool team during their dominance in the 1980s. Carragher also highlighted Nicol’s partnership with John Barnes, which was a key factor in his decision to include him in his XI.
Midfield: Graeme Souness, Steven Gerrard, and John Barnes
The midfield trio Carragher selected is a perfect combination of skill, leadership, and attacking flair. First up is Graeme Souness, a player whose grit and determination made him one of Liverpool’s most feared midfielders. Souness, who captained the club during the early 1980s, was a driving force in midfield, combining physicality with technical brilliance. Carragher’s admiration for Souness as a leader and his ability to control the game made him a must-pick for the XI.
Partnering Souness in the heart of the midfield is Steven Gerrard, a man Carragher knows well from their time playing together. Gerrard is considered by many to be the greatest player in Liverpool’s history. His ability to score crucial goals, drive the team forward, and dominate matches makes him an automatic selection. Carragher highlighted Gerrard’s versatility and leadership, noting that his former teammate could influence games like few others.
On the left, Carragher opted for John Barnes, a player who electrified Anfield with his dazzling dribbling and attacking prowess during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Barnes’ ability to glide past defenders, deliver pinpoint crosses, and score spectacular goals made him one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever wingers. Carragher’s admiration for Barnes’ partnership with Nicol on the left flank sealed his place in this all-time XI.
Salah
Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Kenny Dalglish, and Ian Rush
Up front, Carragher’s first selection is Mohamed Salah, Liverpool’s modern-day talisman and record-breaker. Since joining the club in 2017, Salah has redefined what it means to be a winger, scoring goals at a rate that rivals some of the greatest forwards in football history. Carragher acknowledged that before Salah’s arrival, Ian Callaghan—Liverpool’s all-time appearance leader—would have been his choice for the right-wing spot. But Salah’s goal-scoring feats, combined with his influence on Liverpool’s recent success, made him an obvious inclusion.
Playing alongside Salah is Kenny Dalglish, the King of Anfield. Dalglish’s place in Liverpool folklore is unquestionable. His combination of intelligence, creativity, and goal-scoring ability made him one of the most iconic players in the club’s history. As both a player and manager, Dalglish played a pivotal role in Liverpool’s dominance in the 1970s and 1980s. For Carragher, Dalglish was a no-brainer in his all-time XI.
Completing the front line is Ian Rush, Liverpool’s all-time leading goal-scorer with 346 goals. Rush’s partnership with Dalglish is the stuff of legend, and his goal-scoring exploits in key matches—particularly against Everton in cup finals—cemented his place as one of Liverpool’s all-time greats. Carragher admitted that while Luis Suarez was one of the most talented forwards he had seen at Liverpool, Rush’s longevity, consistency, and ability to deliver on the biggest stages gave him the edge in Carragher’s XI.
Conclusion
Jamie Carragher’s all-time Liverpool XI reflects not only the club’s glorious history but also the depth of talent that has graced Anfield over the years. While modern-day stars like Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have earned their place in his team, Carragher’s admiration for the club’s legends like Ray Clemence, Phil Neal, and Kenny Dalglish showcases a deep respect for the players who helped build Liverpool’s reputation as a footballing powerhouse. Whether fans agree or not, there’s no denying that this team would be a formidable force on any stage.
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The Liverpool FC Times Team
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