Source: LFC.tv
BABBEL: REDS CAN WIN THE DOUBLE
Paul Hassall 28 September 2007
Former Reds star Markus Babbel has tipped Liverpool to secure a glorious League and Champions League double this season.
The veteran German defender, who is currently plying his trade at Stuttgart, is convinced Rafael Benitez's men can not only end an 18-year wait for the title but also thinks they have a great chance of conquering Europe once again.
"This is the first season when they have had the quality to win the league and also win the Champions League," said Babbel.
"They have a really good squad, not just eleven good players but 25 really good players and if they have a bit of luck with injuries, Liverpool can beat any side because they are so strong in defence, midfield and attack especially having brought in Fernando Torres, the kind of striker they've been lacking in recent years."
Babbel enjoyed a remarkable debut season with Liverpool, helping the club to a unique cup treble in 2001 before his Reds career was cruelly cut short when he was struck down by the debilitating Guillain-Barre syndrome.
The 35-year-old recovered to continue his playing career with Blackburn Rovers and current side Stuttgart, and despite his tragic illness, still looks back on his Reds career with great fondness.
"It was the best time in my life," said Babbel.
"I played for one of the biggest clubs in Europe alongside players like Gary (McAllister), who's a legend for me because he's such a great character and leader.
"We won five trophies together. That was a fantastic time, the only sadness for me was that I became ill after that and never came back as before. I was a little unlucky but this one season will always be in my head."
Now in the twilight of his career, Babbel has already set his sights on a career in the dugout once his playing days are over and won't rule out a return to these shores in the future.
"I would like to manage a club in Britain one day," said Babbel.
"I love the British style of football and especially the passion of the fans at big clubs like Liverpool.
"Of course, it would be a dream to go back to Anfield as manager, but there's a lot of hard work to be done before that can happen."