Liverpool's first team squad yesterday took time out of their preparations for Sunday's showdown with Manchester United to spread some festive cheer on the children's ward at Alder Hey Hospital.
All attentions on the field may be focused on this weekend's clash with the champions, but for one extra special afternoon the players were only to happy to play the role of Santa as they delivered presents, posed for pictures and signed autographs for kids who, sadly, face spending the Christmas period away from home.
The players were split into groups as they visited children on different wards of the hospital - all of whom were thrilled to come face to face with their heroes and have a one-off chance to speak football with their favourite stars.
While it was clearly a day of excitement for the kids, it was one of emotion for the players who were pleased to be able to play their part in making some Christmas dreams come true.
"This is something we do every year and I think it's really important that the lads come here and do what we can for these kids at this time of year," said defender Steve Finnan.
"Obviously some of them will get out before Christmas but others will be in hospital over the holiday period and it's nice that we've been able to come here today and put smiles on their faces.
"It's a difficult time for them being in hospital but if us coming along and giving them a present from the club cheers them up and makes them happy then that makes it all worthwhile for us."
Dutch star Ryan Babel added: "It's a really emotional experience. If we can give these kids the inspiration and faith to help with their healing then that's great.
"These kids have dreams as well and even though they're in hospital at the moment, hopefully they'll soon be able to get out and realise their ambitions."
It was a particularly poignant day for striker Dirk Kuyt, whose own son was admitted to Alder Hey children's ward shortly after his birth a few months ago.
"I have experience of this hospital and I've been here a few times before," he said. "I know how good it is and how important it is for this area. They do wonderful things for these children.
"It's great that we can walk into the ward and help the kids forget about their problems for a while. They're happy to have the Liverpool players in their hospital with presents for them.
"It was good to have a chat with them and sign autographs. We came across a few Evertonians as well which was fun and we did our best to change them!"
Here are some snaps of the players at Alder Hey. Simply click on each of the pictures for a bigger image.
