Who Did Michael Owen Call His Most Underrated Teammate?

Michael Owen has spotlighted Sami Hyypia as his 'most underrated teammate', advocating for the Finnish defender's recognition as a Premier League legend. Hyypia played a crucial role at Liverpool, contributing to significant successes, yet remains overlooked in discussions about top defenders. Owen's comments highlight both Hyypia's impact on the team and his enduring legacy within the Premier League.

Last updated: 26 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Michael Owen's recent comments regarding Sami Hyypia have reignited discussions about the former Liverpool defender's legacy in the Premier League. Owen, who had an illustrious career playing for clubs such as Liverpool and Manchester United, believes Hyypia deserves greater recognition for his performances during his decade-long tenure at Anfield. This renewed focus on Hyypia comes against the backdrop of ongoing debates about the greatest defenders in Premier League history, where his name is seldom mentioned.

Key takeaways

• Michael Owen labels Sami Hyypia as his 'most underrated teammate.'
• Hyypia played a pivotal role in Liverpool's successes, including their 2005 Champions League win.
• Owen argues that Hyypia is often overlooked in discussions about top Premier League defenders.

Timeline: how we got here

Michael Owen's comments about Sami Hyypia have emerged following his recent interview with OLBG. Here’s a brief timeline of key events:

• 1999: Sami Hyypia joins Liverpool from Willem II for £2.5 million.
• 2001: Hyypia helps Liverpool secure a treble of trophies including the FA Cup and UEFA Cup.
• 2005: Hyypia plays a crucial role in Liverpool's dramatic Champions League victory against AC Milan.
• 2023: Michael Owen names Hyypia as his most underrated teammate, prompting renewed discussions about his legacy.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Owen's comments have drawn significant attention, as he emphasises the importance of recognising Hyypia's contributions to Liverpool and the Premier League. He argues that Hyypia's style and consistency deserve more acknowledgment, particularly in discussions about legendary defenders.

What was already established

Hyypia's legacy has long been solidified among Liverpool supporters, with many recognising his leadership and defensive skills. He has previously been praised by contemporaries, including fellow Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher, who highlighted the transformative effect Hyypia had on the team's defensive structure.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For football fans, discussions about players like Sami Hyypia can enhance appreciation for the game's history and the evolution of the Premier League. Recognising underrated players encourages a broader understanding of football's tactical developments and the attributes that contribute to a team's success.

Businesses and jobs

The football industry continues to thrive on the back of its rich history and narratives around players like Hyypia. Clubs and media outlets may use these discussions to engage fans, promoting merchandise and memorabilia related to past legends, which can stimulate local economies around club shops and events.

Policy and regulation

There are no immediate policy implications arising from Owen's comments, but the continued discussion about footballers’ legacies may influence how clubs approach player recognition and historical significance in their marketing strategies.

Numbers that matter

• 464: Appearances made by Sami Hyypia for Liverpool during his ten-year tenure.
• 10: Times Hyypia was named Finland’s Footballer of the Year.
• 40: Goals scored by Michael Owen for the England national team in 89 appearances.

Definitions and jargon buster

• PFA Team of the Year: An annual association football award presented by the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) to the best players in the English football leagues.
• Champions League: The most prestigious club competition in European football, featuring the top teams from various domestic leagues.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Fans and analysts may continue to discuss and write about Hyypia's contributions, possibly resulting in renewed interest in historical matches and highlights featuring him.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the Premier League season progresses, discussions about legendary players may become more prominent, especially around anniversaries or significant matches that highlight defensive strategies.

Signals to watch

• Media coverage of historical player legacies in the lead-up to major matches or anniversaries.
• Increased engagement on social media platforms regarding Hyypia and the discussion of underrated players.

Practical guidance

Do

• Engage with historical football content to enhance your understanding of the game's evolution.
• Support clubs in recognising past players through merchandise and events commemorating their contributions.

Don’t

• Dismiss discussions about underrated players; they can provide valuable insights into the sport.
• Overlook the importance of defensive players in shaping successful teams.

Checklist

• Review players who have made significant impacts in the Premier League.
• Watch classic matches featuring Sami Hyypia to appreciate his skills.
• Follow discussions about player legacies on social media and sports news outlets.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

As discussions about player legacies evolve, it's essential to recognise that opinions may vary significantly. The perception of players like Hyypia can shift based on current trends in football analysis and fan engagement. Additionally, while Owen's endorsement adds weight to Hyypia's legacy, it is important to maintain a balanced view and consider contributions from all eras of football.

Bottom line

Michael Owen's remarks on Sami Hyypia serve as a reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of defensive players in football's narrative. Hyypia's lasting impact at Liverpool highlights the importance of recognising all facets of a team's success. Reflecting on the careers of such players can enrich the football discourse, emphasising the need for a broader appreciation of the game's history.

FAQs

Why is Sami Hyypia considered underrated?

Sami Hyypia is often overlooked in discussions about top Premier League defenders despite his significant contributions to Liverpool's successes, as highlighted by Michael Owen.

What achievements did Hyypia accomplish at Liverpool?

During his decade at Liverpool, Hyypia won numerous trophies, including the FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Cup, and the Champions League in 2005.

How does Hyypia compare to other defenders like Virgil van Dijk?

While Hyypia is not considered a better player than Virgil van Dijk, his impact at Liverpool came without the same recognition and financial investment, making his contributions noteworthy.