Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge has claimed the Reds turned down the chance to sign Everton full-back Seamus Coleman, prior to his move to Goodison Park in 2009.
The Republic of Ireland international, who famously cost former Toffees boss David Moyes just £60,000, has been in sparkling form for Roberto Martinez's side this season.
He has laid his claim as arguably the Premier League's best attacking right-back this term, netting five goals in an Everton side that has lost just twice in 21 league matches.
But ex-Reds man Aldridge, writing in Ireland's Sunday World newspaper, has revealed that Coleman was offered to former Anfield chief Rafa Benitez before he joined their Merseyside rivals from Sligo Rovers.
“If Rafael Benitez had been a little more open-minded during his final year as Liverpool manager, Seamus Coleman could be wearing a red shirt at Anfield last night and not a blue Everton jersey,” Aldridge wrote.
Aldridge has previously worked with then-Sligo boss Paul Cook at Tranmere Rovers, who recommend the up-and-coming full-back to Liverpool as he was establishing himself in the League of Ireland.
“Paul knew this kid was top drawer and he rang some contacts at Liverpool and tried to encourage them to take a look at Coleman, but Benitez rejected his advances and said he wasn’t interested.
“Every time I see him, I can’t help but lament what might have been for Liverpool."
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