30. Sammi Hyypia (Willem II to Liverpool, £2.6m 1999)
Recommended by a TV cameraman after failing a trial at Newcastle but ended up shoring up Liverpool’s backline for a decade, picking up domestic and European glory as he went.
29. David Ginola (PSG to Newcastle United, £2.5m, 1995)
The housewife’s favourite had more than silky hair, he had dazzling skills to match. He joined the Toon Army when they were in their Kevin Keegan pomp and played a huge role in their attacking, care-free style of play.
28. Robin van Persie (Feyenoord to Arsenal, £2.75m, 2004)
Without his poor injury record, RVP would be regarded as one of the best striker’s in the world. He has a destructive left-foot and is the best dribbler in the Premier League. Is now worth at least 10 times what Wenger paid for him – would be more but for his fitness.
27.Tim Cahill (Millwall to Everton, £1.5m, 2004)
An attacking, goals-scoring midfielder who has few peers in the Premier League for the consistency of his influence and willingness to play anywhere he is required. The bargain of this century on Merseyside
26. Didier Drogba (Marseille to Chelsea, £24m, 2004)
A tall, powerful striker (who likes to go down easily) spearheaded Chelsea to three league titles. No defender likes playing against him – especially at Arsenal.