profileskrtel.jpg
1984/12/15
Martin Skrtel
Handlova, Slovakia
6'4
12st 11
Defender
Squirtle
Handlova, Slovakia
Club information
Liverpool FC
FC Banik Prievidza, AS Trencin, Zenit St Petersburg.
Slovakia
Facts & Background
Slovak international Martin Skrtel arrived at Anfield in January 2008 with a reputation for being a no-nonsense centre-back.
His signature followed a long search by Rafa Benitez for defensive cover, with Skrtel expected to battle it out with Jamie Carragher, Sami Hyypia and Daniel Agger for a place at the heart of Liverpool's defence.
The 6ft 4 defender began his career with FC Previdza after choosing football over hockey. From there he enjoyed a spell with FC Trencin before moving to the Russian Premier League with FC Zenit in 2004.
Skrtel's performances during 113 games led to international recognition and interest from a host of European clubs including Valencia, Everton and Spurs.
But it was the Reds who eventually clinched his signature and the Slovak made his debut as a second-half sub against Aston Villa on January 21, 2008.
