Is this why Bayern blocked Liverpool’s transfer bid?

Xherdan Shaqiri was linked with a transfer to Liverpool all summer and the Reds were known to be keen on bringing him to Anfield.

It's just that Bayern did not want him to go.

Name: Xherdan Shaqiri
Date of birth: 10/10/91
Club: Bayern Munich
Position: Midfield
Signed from: Basel in 2012

“Liverpool made a bid for me before the World Cup but Bayern put their foot down and told me: ‘We’re not going to sell you’,” he said.

The Switzerland international, whose side welcome England to St Jakob-Park in a Euro 2016 qualifier live on talkSPORT, could still move, though, claiming he will consider his options in the winter.

Since arriving for €12m from Basel in 2012, Shaqiri has won two German titles, two German Cups and the Champions League.

He is so unpredictable when running at defences and as well as his dribbling, Shaqiri's passing and shooting is likely to cause all sorts of problems for England, too.

The 22-year-old is Switzerland's chief creator and his versatility means he can play wide, cutting in from the flank and gliding past the opposition, as well as behind the striker.

He is fast and skilful and despite not being a regular for Bayern last season, still scored six Bundesliga goals and created two.

The young playmaker may be keen to talk down his influence on the national team, but with Shaqiri in the side, you can guarantee defenders will be worked to the bone.

In 37 games for Switzerland, he has scored 12 goals and shone at the World Cup with a hat-trick against Honduras, while the Swiss ran Argentina close before losing 1-0 in extra-time at the last 16 stage.

What is being said?

Xherdan Shaqiri was excellent - he really displayed what he's capable of

– Former Switzerland manager Ottmar Hitzfeld after his team's 3-0 World Cup win against Honduras

With a playmaker, we're a lot more creative in our attacking game. He can spin around very fast and play deep passes

– Switzerland striker Admir Mehmedi after Shaqiri's hat-trick against Honduras

After all your signings, would you still have Xherdan Shaqiri, Liverpool fans?

Remember, talkSPORT has live commentary of Switzerland v England from 7pm on Monday 8 September (KO 7.45pm). Click here to listen live.