Abel Xavier Turns 50 years old today, recalls a time in Liverpool

Almost two decades have passed since Xavier's £800,000 transfer from Everton to Liverpool on January 30, 2002, and he is still the last player to switch teams straight. The Spaniard's employment at Goodison Park was always going to be contentious, even nine years after his own exit from Liverpool. "The outcomes are the only way you can achieve it. 

Benitez's everyday priorities are limited to accomplishing that. I keep up with all of the teams I've played for, and right now I think Everton are competing well, there haven't been many transfers around the field, but extending my contract with Everton was always my top objective. When that wasn't possible, I returned some money to the club.

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I recall playing in the Derby game for Liverpool and none of the Evertonians booed me. I could have stayed for another six months, either playing or not playing, and then went for free, but I said "no, that's not acceptable" and wanted to go in the January. "I wanted to stay at Everton because I was playing, I was popular with the fans, and I was dedicated to the cause," Xavier continued.

Unfortunately, they informed me that due to their financial difficulties, they were unable to extend my contract, despite my desire to do so, I requested permission from the board to leave in January so that Everton might receive compensation for me since if I leave in the summer, I will become a free agent, I am aware of the effects these actions can have, but I think I handled it correctly.

Extension of the contract

I respected and appreciated Everton's supporters and felt honored to have played for them, I wanted to stay, so I gave them the chance to extend my contract, but when they stated it wasn't possible, I had to find another way although Liverpool was the best decision ever to go play at, the club opened many opportunities for him.