Ranking the top 5 free transfers in Liverpool history

#1 Gary McAllister

Gary McAllister

Gary McAllister joined Liverpool from Coventry on a free transfer in the summer of 2000. It seemed like an odd choice, as the 35-year-old would likely earn a high amount of wages. The Reds had many midfield options like Jamie Redknapp, Dietmar Hamann and a young Steven Gerrard. It turns out that the Scotsman brought much more than just good performances on the pitch for Liverpool, after the season that followed for the Scousers.

He brought a huge amount of leadership and experience to the club and helped some of the younger stars reach their potential. His influence showed on the ever-improving character and work ethic of the likes of Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher. McAllister brought a lot of wisdom, from being a 15-year veteran, with him to Anfield and it proved to be an immense help for the overall development of the team. He also helped the Reds on their way to a unique treble.

Liverpool won the League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup in 2000-01, as well as qualified for the following season's Champions League. Gary McAllister had a hand in three of Liverpool's five goals in the UEFA Cup Final against Alaves. But his most memorable moment as Red will always be his unbelievable free-kick winner at Goodison Park against Everton. He scored from forty-four yards out to win the Merseyside Derby 3-2 in the 94th minute of the game. As far as goals go, one cannot beat that.

While he remains a prominent ambassador for the Liverpool, Gary McAllister will always be remembered for unlocking this young team's potential, as they transitioned from Gerard Houllier to Rafa Benitez and enjoyed one of the best European spells in the club's history. There has not been a better free transfer made by Liverpool, and it will be extremely hard to top The Enforcer.