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STEVE FINNAN
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| Position:
Defender
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| Date of Birth:
24/04/1976
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| Height:
6'0
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| Weight:
12st 3
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| 1st team games:
216
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| 1st team goals:
1
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| International caps:
51
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| International goals:
2
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| Former clubs:
Welling, Birmingham City, Notts County, Fulham
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| Birth Place:
Limerick
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Right-back Steve Finnan signed for Liverpool in the summer of 2003.
A model of consistency, it is often said that the Republic of Ireland international is an unsung hero. Not that you'll struggle to find anyone on the Kop willing to sing his praises.
It was a long journey to the Premier League for Finnan, who began his career with non-league Welling United before turning professional with Birmingham City in 1995.
After only a handful of appearances he was on his way to Notts County, where a string of excellent performances attracted the attention of Fulham boss Kevin Keegan.
Finnan became a firm favourite at Craven Cottage following his £600,000 move in November 1998. Three years later he played a key role in the Londoners' promotion to the top flight.
Having made his international debut against Greece in April 2000, Mr Reliable had no problems adapting to the Premier League, and in 2001-02 he was selected in the PFA Team of the Year ahead of the likes of Gary Neville.
From there he appeared in all four of Ireland's matches during the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan.
Gerard Houllier was suitably impressed and swooped ahead of the 2003-04 season.
Finnan made his Reds debut in a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea on August 17, 2003. However, a series of injuries disrupted his first year on Merseyside, and the appointment of a new manager in the summer of 2004 prompted some to cast doubt on his future at the club.
The arrival of Spanish defender Josemi did nothing to strengthen the right-back's position, but his ultra-professionalism and composed defending won the day.
A host of players have since arrived to challenge for his slot, but none have come close to ousting the number three.
Finnan started the 2005 Champions League final in Istanbul, though injury meant he was forced to withdraw at half-time.
In May 2007 he featured in his second European Cup final, playing 88 minutes before Benitez introduced Alvaro Arbeloa.
The popular Irishman signed a new two-year deal in August 2007, with the option of a further year beyond that.
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