1997/98 was not a good season for Sean, called up to the German squad only to see his chance thwarted by injury, only three goals all season for his club Karlsruhe - who finished the season relegated to division 2, alleged problems in his private life which hit the headlines back home in Germany and culminating with a tussle between Liverpool and Borussia Moenchengladbach who both believed they had captured his signature.

A master goal poacher, Sean has been signed primarily as a replacement for long-term injury casualty Robbie Fowler who is not expected to return until 1999.

All kopites will be hoping Sean can quickly repay the faith shown, and not to mention £ 2,000,000 paid, by boss Roy Evans as he attempts to start afresh in another country.