Albert Riera (11)

2008/09 Stats
Apps: 17 Goals: 1 Assists: 0
Minutes on pitch: 1174 mins
Minutes per goal: 1174 mins

After a summer long chase in vain of Gareth Barry in the summer of 2008, Rafa Benitez turned his attention to Espanyol left winger Albert Riera, who was to fill the gap left by the departing Harry Kewell earlier in the summer.

He started his career at RCD Mallorca, the island on which he was born, and won the Copa del Rey in 2003. That summer he was transferred to Bordeaux, where he was a first team regular for two seasons. A loan move to Man City followed in 2005, but his time their was one of disappointment.

He returned to Spain, and Espanyol, in January 2006 and helped the side to the UEFA Cup final.