Profile

Winger Nabil El Zhar was signed by Rafael Benitez from St Etienne in October 2006.

He first caught the eye during the 2005 World Youth Championships when he helped Morocco reach the semis.

El Zhar, who played for France at youth level, made his debut as a 71st minute substitute against Portsmouth on November 29, 2006. It was the first of three appearances in 2006-07.

The following year saw him score a 25-yard corker in front of the Kop during his first start of the campaign against Cardiff City in the Carling Cup.

El Zhar rippled the net again during his senior bow for Morocco versus Belgium in March 2008 before helping Liverpool Reserves clinch the 2007-08 national title.

All this led to him becoming a regular in Benitez's matchday squad during the seasons that followed, though his impact was felt mainly from the bench when the gaffer needed someone to stretch and open opposition defences.

In July 2009, El Zhar signed a two-year contract extension to keep him at Anfield until 2012, but the following year he departed on loan to play for Greek side PAOK.

He returned to Melwood for pre-season training in July 2011, but left the club in August after being released from his contract.