But for Liverpool fans it's yet another accolade for what has been a trademark of the Reds fan down the years, the appreciation of former players returning in opposing colours.
He said: "It's great to see him back on a football pitch, injury free, and he's playing back-to-back games.
"The reception proves one what a fine footballer he is and two, the respect he's got. It was a nice touch from the Liverpool fans, who are probably the fairest in the country.
"It was nice and says a lot for the boy. We're just delighted to see him playing football again after the luck he's had for the last three or four years. He's been playing terrific for us."