They had a famous FA Cup run in the early 1990s, eventually being knocked out by Crewe 3-1 in the 3rd round. Roly Howard was manager for a record 33 years (1972-2005), although he will always be remembered by some fans as Kenny Dalglish's window cleaner. TV presenter Ray Stubbs once asked: "How's business, Roly?" to which Roly replied "Oh you know - ups and downs."
Former players include Michael Ball (Everton and Rangers) and Stephen Wright (Liverpool and Sunderland). The club motto is 'To Enjoy, Not Destroy.'
LIVERPOOL fans are holding their breath over the signing of Robbie Keane.
He's a good player, possibly a very good player. The former Crumlin United (Dublin) striker may even blossom into a world class player alongside Steven Gerrard and Fernando Torres.
And, there's a strong argument that Torres needs a fleet-footed playmaker snapping at the heels of defenders.
Comparisons are already being made between Keane and Dalglish. For 'King Kenny and Rushie' read 'Keane and Torres?' Hmmm, we'll have to see...
At times Keane can be potent. He's averaged 15 league goals over the last six seasons for Spurs. That's a good return. There have been times when his quick feet and equally quick vision have produced the all-important 'something out of nothing.' Liverpool need that.
My big concerns are his age and inexperience at the top level.
His transfers to date have netted £58m. They are:
Tottenham to Liverpool: £20m.
Leeds to Tottenham: £7m.
Inter Milan to Leeds : £12m.
Coventry to Inter Milan : £13m.
Wolves to Coventry : £6m.
Despite a good season in a generally poor Spurs team, at the age of 28 you would expect to pay around £8m to £10m for Keane. That is his 'on the pitch' value. So why £20m?
The extra £10m of the transfer fee, of course, could be seen as a commercial gamble. Just think of the extra cash Liverpool FC will now make out of the Republic of Ireland with merchandise. Clever business?
But, will Liverpool be selling him on in two years aged 30 for £5m?
In the wider football world Keane was not top of the 'most wanted' list. His European experience is limited (has he played any Champions League football?) and his CV is far from impressive for a striker 'worth' £20m. Wolves, Coventry, Inter Milan (disastrous spell), Leeds and Tottenham.
There's little evidence that Barcelona, Real Madrid, Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester United were sniffing round the newly-married Irishman who must be feeling re-born.
All in all, it's a big gamble for Liverpool FC and manager Rafa Benitez who has broken with his tradition of only paying big bucks for young players such as Alonso, Mascherano, Babel and Torres.
But, Keane will provide what Kuyt failed to do last season. A dozen of more league goals. That could be the difference between competing for the Premier League title at Easter or being also-rans by Christmas.
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Dave wrote...
I'm pretty excited by Keane joining. My rule of thumb when judging an attacking player is whether I get nervous when they get the ball when playing against us -if that makes sense?
Keane used to make me nervous.
I expect him to be a better number 7 than Smicer and Kewell. He's only one G short of a Keegan!!
Posted by: Dave | August 2, 2008 11:07 AM