Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is at the peak of his game after growing a hairy, ginger beard, according to Spanish head coach Vicente Del Bosque.
The skillful Spaniard has been key to Liverpool's title challenge this season and it's all because of his new look facial hair.
Del Bosque said: "Alonso used to have a baby-faced appearance which didn’t help his cause in the game.
"But this hairy beard he has developed has helped him find the strong, manly characteristics that he was previously missing.
"He has a serious 'I mean business' air about him now.
"He's the finished article and his new look has made him one of the best midfielders in the world."
Alonso has won 55 caps for his country and has been a regular in the side since Del Bosque took charge last summer.
The 27-year-old almost left Anfield for Italian giants Juventus at the end of last season as manager Rafa Benitez looked for funds to sign Aston Villa playmaker Gareth Barry.
But Alonso stayed and has since developed a lethal combination with Javier Mascherano and Steven Gerrard in the heart of the Liverpool midfield.
An Anfield insider said: "Xabi was on the brink of leaving the club, but the fans are delighted he's still here.
"He's been in fantastic form for us and if it’s because of that ginger beard that he can’t stop stroking then long may it grow."
brinda, joburg around 1 year, 10 months ago