IT was arguably the most memorable of all the great European nights at Anfield. And more than five years later, the impact of the unforgettable Champions League semi-final against Chelsea continues to resonate.

Just ask Joe Cole. When it became apparent the England international was unable to agree a new deal at Stamford Bridge, the chase was on for the most high-profile free transfer of this summer’s transfer window.

Manchester United pondered a dabble, former club West Ham United spoke of huge wages, while Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal both offered the lure of Champions League football without having to leave home.

But once Liverpool made their interest clear, the waters became much clearer.

Steven Gerrard and Jamie Carragher had a word. Roy Hodgson stated his case. But ultimately it was that night in 2005 that proved decisive for Cole.

“This is a massive club,” says the 28-year-old. “I tried to take everything out of the equation, take the financial and location side out and just thought in football terms.

“I thought about the semi-final of the Champions League in 2005 when I ran on to the field and the hairs on the back of my neck stood up. I was thinking about playing in that atmosphere every week and that swung it for me.

“That’s the thing I am looking forward to. You talk to Liverpool players and talk about the European nights. I experienced it as an opponent and it was immense. To go out there and play in that atmosphere every week will be phenomenal.

“I have played in London all my life, I could have stayed at Chelsea because the fans loved me and I won things, but I wanted to challenge myself and when I knew Liverpool were interested it was a no-brainer because they are the biggest club in the country.

“I know I have made the right decision and I am looking forward to the challenge. This is a challenge for me.”