Past playersJerzy Dudek

    • Years: 2001-2007

    • Appearances: 186

    • Honours: Champions League (2005), FA Cup (2006), League Cup (2003)

    Of all the contributions made to Liverpool's sensational comeback against AC Milan in the Champions League final of 2005, that of Jerzy Dudek is perhaps the most unbelievable.

    In addition to making a stunning double save from Andriy Shevchenko in the closing moments of the clash in Istanbul, the Polish goalkeeper then punched away two penalties in the subsequent shootout to give the Reds a fifth European Cup.

    His Anfield journey had started four years earlier when Gerard Houllier swooped for two 'keepers, with Dudek and Chris Kirkland signing on the dotted line. The Pole took the No.1 spot and thrived throughout the 2001-02 season.

    A lithe and agile stopper, Dudek was an excellent saver of shots and provided a level of assurance behind a stubborn Liverpool defence – the Reds conceded just 30 league goals in finishing second behind Arsenal.

    After a promising, unbeaten opening to the next campaign, Dudek made a number of high-profile mistakes that rocked his confidence. A superb performance in the 2003 League Cup final triumph over Manchester United redeemed the Pole, however.

    With Kirkland and later Scott Carson as a constant threat to his position as first choice, Dudek nevertheless maintained his starting berth and produced a series of important performances on the road to Istanbul.

    It was in Turkey where the 'keeper defied logic to keep out Shevchenko twice from mere yards away; encouraged by Jamie Carragher, Dudek then emulated Bruce Grobbelaar's 'wobbly legs' technique to thwart the Italians and ignite wild celebrations.

    Pepe Reina was added to the club's ranks in the summer of 2005 with a view to replacing him between the posts, and the Poland international was restricted to just 12 appearances in the two years that followed.

    Having served as a loyal No.2 until 2007, Dudek sought a new adventure upon the completion of his contract and departed Anfield amicably and guaranteed an immortal berth in Liverpool history.

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