Xabi Alonso says Liverpool icon who he never played with had big impact on career

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He first coached Swansea City at 29, managed Wales for six years, and oversaw two spells at Real Madrid.

The 76-year-old also managed in Portugal, France, Italy, North Macedonia, Azerbaijan and Morocco.

During one of his three spells at Real Sociedad, Toshack uncovered a world-beater.

With the Basque club bottom of the table at the turn of the 2000/01 season, Toshack decided to recall Alonso from loan

In an incredible turn of events, the Welshman opted to make Alonso captain and Sociedad went on to avoid relegation, finishing 14th.



Xabi Alonso began his career his career at Sociedad

To this day, Alonso still credits Toshack with kick-starting his career

“I would not have had the success I have had if it was not for John Toshack,” he told the Daily Mail in 2012.

“I was on loan in the Spanish second division when he called me back to play for Real Sociedad and the team were not in a good situation.

“I was 19, but he said: 'I have the confidence in you that you can help turn this season around’

Now at Real, Alonso will be back to face Liverpool in the Champions League later this season.