... but Didi Hamann has taken a swipe at his old teammate Alan Shearer. Hamann has taken issue with Shearer over his criticism of Joe Allen on Match Of The Day.
Hamann: “Shearer wouldn’t know about passing a ball because all he did was finish.
“He did a good job of putting it in the net but he never needed to pass a ball backwards or sideways.
“It’s rubbish to say Joe Allen only makes easy passes. You need players who keep the team ticking over and ensure that you keep possession,
“What he has done for the football club so far has been great. I’m not sure any other player would have had the impact he’s had.
“The fans are talking about Allen and rightly so because he’s been outstanding. Shearer’s remarks won’t make me change my mind.”
Hamann began his career at the little known FC Wacker München.
After impressing as a junior, he joined Bayern Munich as a 16-year old in 1989. The 1996–97 season was to become Hamann's breakthrough. After being a bench player most of his career until then, new coach Giovanni Trappatoni made him a starting defensive midfielder.
Hamann played in 23 games, also making his debut in the German national team and won his second German championship with Bayern.
In private life, Hamann had to overcome a scary period when he broke down unconscious and was diagnosed with a stroke, but made a full recovery.
The next season Hamann played in 28 games and scored two goals. The season ended on a high for Bayern when they secured the DFB-Pokal against MSV Duisburg.
After playing for his country in the 1998 World Cup, he joined Newcastle United, managed at the time by Kenny Dalglish, for £5.5 million.
Overcoming an early foot injury, Hamann played in 31 matches and scored five goals.
In July 1999 he opted to join Gerard Houllier's Liverpool, who signed him for £8 million. Whilst at Newcastle he played in the 1999 FA Cup Final.
Hamann established himself as an influential midfielder for Liverpool throughout his seven years at the club.
All in all, Hamann played in 191 league games and scored eight goals. In the 2000–01 season, Hamann won his first big English trophy when Liverpool won a much-celebrated cup treble (League Cup, FA Cup and UEFA Cup) and a place in the Champions League.
Source: FOOTYMAD
