Morientes

Full name is: Fernando Morientes Sánchez.

Morientes began his career at Albacete before joining Real Zaragoza in 1995. He began his long association with striking partner Raul at the 1995 Under-20 World Championships and the 1996 Olympics and this persuaded Real Madrid to sign him in 1997.

He made a fairytale international debut in March 1998 scoring two goals in the first five minutes. He won two European Champions League medals in 1998 and 2000 but despite having been a member of the 1998 World Cup squad he was a surprise omission from the 2000 European Championship Finals squad.

His performances at Real Madrid meant a recall after the disastrous showing in 2000 and remained a regular squad member. He has scored on his debut for all of his clubs, Spain under 18, 20 and the full side. He is a good finisher, excellent in the air and his partnership with Raul is well established.

Although many thought he would start in the Japan World Cup, the outstanding form of Diego Tristran meant that he was relegated to the bench for the first two games.

He staked his claim for a starting place with two goals in the 3-1 defeat of Paraguay then scored Spain's goal in the Second Round draw with Ireland as they progressed to the quarter-finals on a penalty shoot-out.

Morientes joined Liverpool in January 2005 with a contract to June 2008.