Riise: Reds got a bargain signing Alonso - Echo

Liverpool Echo, 27 Sept 2004
Reds got a bargain signing Alonso - Riise
By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

XABI ALONSO was declared a "£10m bargain" following his inspirational
performance against Norwich.

The Spanish international gave a midfield masterclass in the Reds' 3-0 home
win.

And as he and his team mates headed to Greece today for the Champions
League clash with Olympiakos, John Arne Riise led the tributes to the
22-year-old. "I've never seen anyone pass the ball as well as Xabi," said
Riise.

"It's like watching another version of Stevie Gerrard. He is a great, great
player. It's amazing he's only 22-years-old. He may have cost £10m but he
looks worth every penny of that. He had a magnificent match.

" I'd played against Xabi before he joined Liverpool when Spain played
Norway in the Euro 2004 play-offs. I hadn't noticed how good he was then,
but since he's joined us everyone can see it.

"He deserved his standing ovation when he was taken off. It wasn't just the
crowd applauding. I was clapping as well. When a player performs that well,
I think it's right he gets that kind of response because he deserves it.

"I think it was probably our best performance of the season so far. When
you start well it gives you the momentum to carry it on for the whole game.

"I thought Steve Warnock played really well too. I think we've linked
together. He knows when to stay back to allow me to get forward and
vice-versa."

Rafa Benitez's squad left early this morning for Athens, seeking the win
which would give Liverpool a huge advantage in their bid to qualify for the
last 16.

An away victory would put Liverpool five points ahead of the Greeks after
just two games.

"It could be a great match and we'll be going there to win," said Riise..

"We've got to try and play the same style away from Anfield as we have at
home. I don't know why we've not done so yet.

"Maybe it's a mental thing, or maybe it's just the way we've been starting
games. When you get a good start the confidence grows and everyone is
really enjoying themselves.

"I know some of the lads played in Greece in 2001 and the crowd is very
noisy there. I'm looking forward to it."

No fresh injuries were reported before the trip. Harry Kewell travelled
with the squad.

Italian referee Pierluigi Collina will referee tomorrow's clash.