Michael Owen has admitted that he "felt most at home" during his 13-year career at Liverpool from youth level to professional.
The 33-year-old, who has decided to hang up his boots at the end of the season, has had a strained relationship with the Reds fans since he left for Real Madrid in 2004.
The former England international also sparked controversy when he opted to join Liverpool's fierce rivals Manchester United on a free contract in 2009.
"It was at Liverpool where I felt most at home," Owen wrote on his official website. "Progressing through the ranks with Steven Gerrard, following the well trodden path of Fowler, McManaman, Matteo and Carragher, there was always a sense at the time that if you were good enough you would get a chance.
"That chance came at Selhurst Park on May 6, 1997. The best years of my career followed in an eight year spell at the Reds."
Owen has also represented the colours of Newcastle United and Stoke City during his career.
Danielle Joynson
