Alessandro joined the Blues in a five-year deal at the end of June 2000 for a #3 million transfer fee. Snapped up by Newcastle manager Kenny Dalglish for #4.3 million in 1997 he showed his versatlity almost straight away at St James' Park by operating in a variety of positions.

Princiaplly a left-back, he can also play in the centre of defence and always looks calm and collected on the ball. A player, who likes to move up and down the pitch, he is renowned for the ability to deliver damaging crosses for his sides forward players.

Enjoys playing in the Premiership, despite suffering a number of set-backs, which include being left out of the team by Ruud Gullit on his arrival in the North-East in season 1998-99. However, last season he was welcomed back into the black and white fold by former England boss Bobby Robson, but broke his leg, which again forced him to miss out.

He has now made a full recovery and is relishing the opportunity of showing the Goodison faithful the full extent of his talents.

-- Anonymous, September 28, 2000