Champions League Final: Comparing Liverpool's winning XI from 2005 with Klopp's expected XI

How does the current crop of players compare to the class of 2005?
How does the current crop of players compare to the class of 2005?

Centre-back - Jamie Carragher vs Dejan Lovren

Chelsea v Liverpool - Carling Cup Quarter Final
Carragher is one of Liverpool's greatest-ever defenders

Jamie Carragher is the best defender to come through the Liverpool academy in this century. His leadership, consistency and quality were duly amplified due to his sheer desire to win every time he donned the Reds' jersey. The narrative could not be more opposite for Dejan Lovren.

The 28-year old has struggled to hit top form at Anfield and faces constant criticism from fans and pundits alike. However, he did turn a corner this season as his performances show. Further, he is similar to Carragher in terms of passion and is dangerous during set-pieces.

Nevertheless, Carragher's ability to step up in big games and to fight for the club even when running on empty, as seen in the 2005 final, simply sees him top Lovren.

LFC 2005 3 - 1 LFC 2018


Centre-back - Sami Hyypia vs Virgil van Dijk

Sami Hyypia of Liverpool celebrates afte
Hyypia is one of the club's greatest bargains

The first quality clash in this list belongs to these two centre-halves. On one side is Sami Hyypia, one of the greatest bargain signings ever made by the club and turned out to be one of the classiest defenders in Liverpool history. On the other side is Virgil van Dijk, the most expensive defender to date and he has already shown his worth in the past five months.

In fact, the Dutchman was instrumental for the Reds' progress in the Champions League as his leadership and calmness stabilized the shaky defence. While the 26-year old could eventually carve a big spot in the Liverpool history for himself, Hyypia wins this tie for his quality, accomplishments and longevity.

LFC 2005 4 - 1 LFC 2018

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