Flourent Malouda revealed he almost signed for Liverpool – before later joining Chelsea.

The former winger was coached by Gerard Houllier at the time and was nearly convinced by make a switch to Anfield.

Speaking exclusively to Genting Casino, Malouda said: “Gerard Houllier was my coach.

“Whenever I was training, I would always ask him questions about the Premier League and whether or not I play there.

“He said you have to go and experience the Premier League at least once in your career and then he grabbed his phone and called Liverpool – he literally made the deal for me.”

Liverpool were coached by Rafa Benitez at the time, who was keen on signing Malouda.

He revealed: “Liverpool were the first team to make an offer. Rafa was the coach and he really pushed for me to go to Liverpool.”

The Frenchman eventually joined Chelsea for £13m move in 2007.

Malouda said: “When Chelsea came in for me, I felt so much pride.

“I knew a lot of the players that were already there, and of course we would speak regularly on the phone, which helped my decision, so I knew Chelsea were the club that I really wanted to join.”