CaughtOffside » Finland

Hyypia last featured for country in a 2-1 loss in Euro 2012 qualifying. The 105-times capped defender remains a first team starter at Bayer Leverkusen, however, and has yet to reveal his plans beyond the 2010-11 season. (Goal.com)

One of Liverpool’s greatest ever signings, Sami Hyypia had the option to stay at Anfield beyond summer 2009, but elected to move to German club Bayer Leverkusen in pursuit of first team football.

Even now at 37 years old, Hyypia is regularly picked for the Bundesliga side, and that illustrates the impressive longevity and fitness of someone regarded as a true professional.

The Finnish player has only ever received one red card in his eighteen years playing the game, against Manchester United in 2003. Hyypia pulled the shirt of Red Devils striker Ruud van Nistelrooy as he went through on goal, and had to walk.

In 2000-2001 he jointly captained Liverpool alongside Robbie Fowler to a treble of the UEFA Cup, FA Cup and Carling Cup (then known as the Worthington Cup), and this will go down as his finest hour in a Liverpool shirt.

In his final match for the Reds on May 24th 2009, Hyypia’s team-mates held him on their shoulders in tribute to his service, as pictured above.

After 105 international caps – second only to Finland legend (and former Liverpool player) Jari Litmanen – Sami Hyypia has elected to concentrate on club football.

Though last month he revealed he will become Bayer Leverkusen assistant manager upon his retirement as a player, one day he may well return to Anfield.

Finland 8-0 San Marino: Euro 2012 Qualifier Highlights (Video)

Mad Dog and Glory — Thu, 18 Nov 2010 08:23:58 +0000

A hat-trick from former Chelsea striker Mikael Forssell helped Finland to an easy win over minnows San Marino.

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Finland 2-1 Wales World Cup 2010 Qualifying Highlights (Video)

Mad Dog and Glory — Sat, 10 Oct 2009 22:41:36 +0000

A goal from Niklas Moisander sealed a late win for Finland over Wales who scored through in form Manchester City man Craig Bellamy.

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