Liverpool fans must have been wondering exactly who Xabi Alonso was when they picked him up from Real Sociedad back in 2004, not knowing just how much of a legend he'd become in his time there.Arriving alongside fellow Spaniard Luis Garcia as Rafa Benitez's first signings at the club, Alonso was a key component in a new-look Liverpool and went on to form a devastating midfield partnership with Steven Gerrard.He may have only been with the club for four years, but his performances and genuine affection for the side will never be forgotten by the fans.Back in January, he revealed that he would be drawing a close to his highly successful playing career by finally hanging up his boots at the age of 35.Currently with Bayern Munich, he's still in with a chance of lifting the Bundesliga title and the Champions League, which would be a fitting way for him to bow out.Many Reds fans had hoped he would squeeze in one more season back at Anfield, but this morning he released another tweet to confirm his plans to put the playing side of the game behind him to move on to new things.Posting a black and white picture of himself holding a pair of boots and waving back at the camera he said: "Lived it. Loved it. Farewell beautiful game."

This has caused an outpouring of tributes and well wishes, not only from fans of his former sides but from football lovers everywhere. It seems he was a player that could unite everyone in their love of the game.

And in amongst the platitudes, a video has emerged showing just how quickly he took to Premier League football all those years ago.

Having signed for the club just a month before the game in question, his passing and vision is a joy to behold as he spectacularly tore Norwich apart.

See for yourself below...

He was yet to score at that point, but showed that he was not afraid to have a go from distance (2:40) with a low drive that Rob Green managed to keep a hold of.

Alonso scored 79% of his 14 Premier League goals from outside the box, which is the second highest proportion of any player who's scored more than 10 goals in the top flight. The best being Tom Huddlestone with 80%.

He did get an assist under his belt, though (3:30) by teeing up striker Djibril Cisse for Liverpool's third.

He eventually made way towards the end of the game for Florent Sinama Pongolle to a rousing ovation from the fans.