OHHHH SAMI SAMI
Gerrard leads tributes to Hyypia
Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has led the tributes to defender Sami Hyypia, who is set to leave the club at the end of the season.
Hyypia, 35, will join German side Bayer Leverkusen on a free transfer in the summer after a decade at Anfield.
"It's difficult to put into words how we feel about Sami. He's been fantastic for us, a colossus," said Gerrard.
"He certainly deserves legendary status and he is definitely one of the best players I have ever played alongside."Hyypia, who joined Liverpool from Dutch side Willem II in 1999 for £2.5m, is expected to make his 464th appearance for Liverpool in their final game of the season, at home to Tottenham on Sunday.
The former club captain has won the Champions League and Uefa Cup during his time on Merseyside, as well winning the European Super Cup in 2001 and 2005, the FA Cup in 2001 and 2006 and League Cup in 2001 and 2003.
Liverpool assistant manager Sammy Lee hailed Finland international Hyypia's professional attitude and tipped him to move into coaching once his playing days are over.
"Sami is a terrific professional, a fine player," said Lee. "Under that cool exterior there is a really emotional guy and he will certainly feel that on Sunday.
"These days you do not get players staying very long at one club, but it is a testimony to him that he has been able to evolve as a player and last 10 years at this club.
"He is committed, a good professional. He has all the attributes to make a coach and manager, he can make the tough decisions."
Striker Dirk Kuyt joined in the tributes, saying: "For me he is a top professional, one of the best I have ever met.
"Most importantly for me, Sami is also a good human being and has a good personality. I will miss him but I'm sure he will be in touch with us and Liverpool.
"It is a great achievement to play 10 years at a special club like Liverpool, especially for a foreign player, and I have a lot of respect for him."
What a legend the man is, he'll be massively missed but im sure he'll be back in 2 years to coach.