OurKop.com would like to say thank you to Sami Hyypia for a wonderful 10 years of service. I recall when we signed Sami 10 years ago for 2.6m pounds and none of us had ever heard of him. But he made an instant impression on all of us and became the rock in our defence for many seasons. It is sad that he has to leave us now but we will him all the best in Germany and hopefully Sami will return to Liverpool one day. Thank you Sami, You Will Never Walk Alone!

I was saddened today when I heard the news that Sami Hyypia had agreed to join German side Bayer Leverkusen on a two-year deal in the summer. Sami has been with us for 10 years and has been an outstanding player. It is amazing that we only spent 2.5m pounds on him when we signed him but he went on to become one of the greatest defenders we have ever seen in the history of Liverpool.

I can understand where Sami is coming from with this move. His opportunities to get regular games for us were getting slimmer and slimmer as he gets older. He was offered one further year at Liverpool and he has turned it down as he feels he is still able to play more games at the highest level than he would at Liverpool. I for one would certainly be happy for Sami to see him continue to play. At Liverpool he is behind Carragher, Skrtel and Agger in the pecking order. And with Agger now having signed a new contract, opportunities would be fewer for Sami.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank Sami for a wonderful 10 years that he gave us. You truly are a living legend and we wish you all the best in Germany.
YNWA

There is a quality article up on the Liverpool Echo’s website about Sami Hyypia that I read today and it really got me thinking about the big Finn. It’s hard to imagine that he has been at the club for going on 10 years now, one of the only remnants from a previous time for our side, it truly does speak to his quality not just as a player but also as a human being. To be kept in the side and to be entrusted with a major role all the way up to the present, he has made very few missteps, if any.

I know I personally could not have been more excited for his goal against Arsenal in the CL QF this past season. That was a header to dream of, and one which I am certain I will never forget. On top of moments such as those, his game intelligence and anticipation truly make him a wonder as we all know he is hardly a gazelle out there. (No offense Sami if you’re reading!)

Anyhow here’s the link to the article, and let’s all take a minute to reflect on just what Sami has done for our team, and keep pulling for us to claim a Premiership title before he leaves the club. Again, thanks Mr. Hyypia.

Link: Veteran Hyypia won’t give up without a fight