On this day (September 8) in 2001, new Liverpool signing Jerzy Dudek made a debut in Red. 

The Polish stopper was unable to resist a 3-1 defeat at home to Aston Villa following an arrival from Dutch Eredivisie side Feyenoord. 

Signed for £6.66million (Transfermarkt) by Gerard Houllier, alongside fellow ‘keeper Chris Kirkland, Dudek was facing major competition for the number one spot from the outset. 

Now 48-years-old, Dudek was the hero on that famous night now dubbed the ‘Miracle of Istanbul’ following a string of important saves at key times. 

Amassing 186 appearances during a six-year stay on Merseyside, Liverpool’s ‘Pole in the Goal’ left as a free agent for Real Madrid in 2007. 

As well as earning 60 Poland caps, Dudek lifted the UEFA Champions League, League Cup, FA Cup and La Liga trophy during a distinguished career at the top level. 

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Signing two potentially number one goalkeepers on the same day was a bold move, to say the least. 

Perhaps best and forever remembered for the exploits in the penalty shootout success over AC Milan in 2005, Dudek was a top-quality ‘keeper who often came up with big moments at Anfield. 

Crazy antics, memorable shirts and wobbly legs to one side – Dudek will forever be an icon on Merseyside. 

Is Jerzy Dudek A Liverpool Legend?

Yes

No