Position: Midfielder
SquadNumber: 14
Nationality: Spanish
DOB: 25/11/1981
Height: 6 ft 0 in
Weight: 11 st 8 lbs
Club: Liverpool
The son of former Sociedad boss Periko Alonso, a midfield warrior for Sociedad, Barcelona and Spain, Xabi was one of the most important players in a Sociedad side which finished as runners-up to Real Madrid in the 2002/03 season - missing out on the final day.
But the 2003/04 was a disappointment for Sociedad. In a fall from grace reminiscent of Leeds United and Blackburn Rovers in the 1990s, they went from championship challengers to relegation fodder in a matter of months. After a decent start they slid down the table, recovering to finish five points above Real Valladolid in the final relegation place.
After switching to Liverpool after international duty with Spain at Euro 2004, he made his debut in a 1-0 defeat at Bolton Wanderers and soon became a vital player for the Anfield club.
It was a huge blow when, following a tackle by Chelsea's Frank Lampard, he was ruled out for three-and-a-half months just after the turn of the year.
He returned to help Liverpool to Champions League glory in 2005, scoring the goal which completed the comeback from three goals down against AC Milan before victory was secured on penalties.
Alonso's quality performances continued through 2005/06 and in January 2006 he scored from his won half against Luton Town in the FA Cup 3rd round and improved on that strike with another goal from inside his own half against Newcastle in September of the same year.
In June 2007 Alonso signed an improved 5-year contract, which will last until 2012.
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