Former Liverpool defender John Arne Riise has reflected on the one moment in particular that changed the trajectory of his professional career.
Riise signed for Liverpool from Monaco in a deal worth around £4 million back in 2001 and would go on to spend no less than 7-years at the club.
The ex-Norway star made just shy of 350 appearances for Liverpool during his time at the club, racking up five major trophies along the way including the UEFA Champions League in the 2004-05 season.
After he became the natural second choice to Fabio Aurelio during the 2007-08 season, Riise decided that his time on Merseyside was coming to an end. He later signed a long-term contract with AS Roma although he did make a return to England with Fulham several years later.
Speaking on his personal website, Riise revealed that the goal he scored against arch-rivals Manchester United in 2001 proved to be a turning point in his Liverpool career as he claims it ‘changed everything’ for him.
“That goal against United is something I’ll always be remembered for. It was one of those moments where everything just clicked, and the ball flew perfectly.
A win against United was always special, and we were determined to deliver. Walking out onto the pitch, you could feel the energy from the crowd. It was one of those games where you knew something special could happen.
The moment I hit it, I knew it was special. The connection was perfect, and the sound of the ball hitting the back of the net was unforgettable.
That goal changed everything for me. It elevated my status at the club and among the fans. People still talk to me about it today, and it’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
To have a moment like that at Anfield, in such a crucial game, created a special link between me and the supporters. It’s something that stayed with me throughout my career.”
Whilst he played at left back for almost the entirety of his time on Merseyside, Riise provided 67 goal contributions along the way, establishing himself as one of the best left-sided defenders on the planet at his peak.
