In an exclusive column for Carra Week, Reds legend Dietmar Hamann reveals why our No.23 would always be the first name on his teamsheet.

When I was asked to write this column for Liverpoolfc.tv I knew that I would have to include my favourite Jamie Carragher moment.

That instantly provided me with a problem.

Why is that you may ask?

Well, the answer is simple, there have been so many great Carra performances over the years, it's nigh on impossible to select one.

He always performs when he pulls on that red shirt and he always gives his best for the Liverpool cause.

If you look back over the past five years he's been one of the best centre backs in Europe because he reads the game so well and always puts the team first.

I remember his performance against Chelsea in the 2005 Champions League semi-final when he was quite simply unbeatable - but I think you have to look to the final in Istanbul as a game that characterised what he is all about.

Not only was he full of fight and spirit to help us get back on terms, but in extra-time he would have been willing to give his last breath to keep Milan out.

He just kept going down with cramp and lesser players would probably have had to go off with it. But he never considered it for one second. He just kept making blocks and tackles.

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There will be a lot of fans out there who can't remember the days when Jamie Carragher's name wasn't on the team sheet. He's been an incredible servant to Liverpool Football Club and if anyone deserves a testimonial, it is him.

It's very rare that players stay with one club now. When you think of the number of years he's been playing for a team of this stature, at such a high level, it really is an outstanding achievement.

He's a great character on the pitch because he hates to lose and helps to drive everyone on. Off the pitch he's a great guy too. He's always looking to have a laugh and he's brilliant for team spirit.

He improved a great deal during my time as his teammate - of course, the same can be said of Steven Gerrard and Michael Owen. They were very talented youngsters coming through.

But I think over the years Carra has just got better and better. He did really well at full-back for a while but I think when Rafael Benitez moved him to centre back it took him to a new level.

He's won almost everything there is to win at Anfield and I think he will be remembered as one of the best players to have played for Liverpool. He's certainly up there with the greats - and when you consider some of the defenders that have played here, that's some accolade. I think he is deserving of it.

When you look at the impact he has had and the overall influence over the past 10 years or so, then it's hard to pick out many who have been as important.

I know he's made more Liverpool appearances than most players now. I don't know whether he can catch Ian Callaghan, but he could have three to five years left in him, so let's see what happens.

I hope I can get back to Merseyside to witness some part in his big day on Saturday. I'm involved with Milton Keynes' match against Hartlepool around midday but I'd love to be able to join in the celebrations.

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I've been lucky enough to have played with a lot of good footballers but you always knew what you would get with Carra.

If there was a big game coming up he would be the first name on your team sheet. He'll defend that Liverpool goal with his life and that's what you need. You want teammates who will do anything for the cause.

The fans often sing about a 'team of Carraghers' and I think everyone associated with the club knows how lucky they are to have had Jamie in their ranks. Hopefully that will be the case for many years to come too.

Didi was speaking to Paul Hassall