December 24 – Deck The Halls With Milan Baros

IN 2001 GÃ©rard Houllier had already been something of a Santa figure when he delivered three trophies for Liverpool fans before he succumbed to a serious heart problem which put him in hospital.

It was on this day that same year that Houllier managed to complete his last-minute Christmas shopping despite being confined to his sick bed.

While everyone else was rushing around the shops looking for that special something for their loved ones ho ho ho Houllier was opening the Anfield cheque book to sign girl lookalike Milan Baros from Czech side BanÃk Ostrava.

The Reds’ front line at the time consisted of pocket rocket Michael Owen and Emile Heskey, after the departure of Robbie Fowler to Leeds. With Owen having to shoulder the entire goal scoring burden for the team Houllier obviously thought he needed help.

Baros would only play once that season in a Champions League tie with Barcelona but the following season he scored 12 goals for the Anfield team.

The 2003/04 season would prove to be disappointing for Baros after a leg break restricted his appearances. He would make up for it at Euro 2004 however where he picked up the tournament golden boot award for his five goals as the Czech Republic made it to the semi finals before being knocked out by eventual winners Greece.

By this time Houllier had been relieved of his duties and Rafa Benitez installed in his place and under the Spaniard Baros was part of the team that won the Champions League.

He left Merseyside soon after for Aston Villa before swapping the Midlands for Lyon to link up with his old mate Gerard Houllier.

Here is a little compilation of Milan’s exploits at Anfield and all that remains is for us here at OTFD to wish you all a very Merry Christmas indeed.

If you have had enough of turkey and Noel Edmunds tomorrow fear not, for we will be here with a Christmas entry about one of the most amazing events in human history.