No.2: Joins forces with Henchoz
The arrival of another reliable defender, Stephane Henchoz, in the same summer clearly aided Hyypia's initial transition to English football as the two men formed an excellent partnership in the middle of the backline.
Their combination helped to lay foundations for Houllier’s new-look team and they were key figures – both individually and as a pair – as the Reds matured into a side capable of winning silverware and challenging for the title in the seasons after they signed.