Liverpool Football Club were formed by local Merseyside businessman John Houlding in 1892. Houlding found himself as the owner of Anfield, but he didn't have a team to play on the ground. Everton FC had moved from Anfield to Goodison Park that year, leaving a vacancy at the now-legendary ground. Houlding remedied the aliment by founding Liverpool Football Club with Anfield as the team's stadium.
The club bounced between divisions until Bill Shankly arrived in 1959. It didn't take long for Shankly's new training methods and tactics to take shape and guide Liverpool out of the Second Division. The Reds won the Second Division in 1961-62 and lifted the First Division trophy two years later. He won three First Division trophies, a UEFA Cup, and two FA Cups before stepping down in 1974.
Assistant manager Bob Paisley took over and continued the team's success well into the 1980s. Paisley's appointment led to the famed Boot Room succeeding managers as they departed. An inability to modernise in various ways left Liverpool on the periphery of success in the 1990s. While clubs like Manchester United, Newcastle United, and Arsenal thrived in the all-new Premier League, Liverpool was left clutching the past. It wouldn't be until the arrival of Gerard Houllier in the late 1990s that Liverpool would enter the modern era. Even then, there were those who tried to pull the club back into the past.
Bet on Liverpool
Leading sportsbooks offer betting markets on Liverpool every matchday of the football season. The long football season allows bettors to wager on the Reds in various ways. Before they kick off, bettors can wager on Liverpool as the outright Premier League or domestic cup competition winner.
You can bet on one-off matches, players, correct scores, and goals. Major bookies also offer special offers on big games in the league or Champions League.
Bettors can select bets on Liverpool in the transfer market and which player(s) will arrive at Anfield. They can even wager on the next Liverpool manager, although Jurgen Klopp has earned Shankly—and Paisley-like status since restoring the club to its former glory.
Liverpool Players
Anfield is the home of some of the world's most recognised players today. However, no Liverpool player is as recognisable as forward Mohamed Salah. The Egyptian winger has set record after record since joining Liverpool from Roma in 2017. Salah has scored 125 goals and tallied 47 assists in 203 games for the Reds.
Salah isn't the only top star at Anfield. Captain Jordan Henderson has become the “new Steven Gerrard” while centre-back Virgil van Dijk is the rock in the team's defence.
Goalkeeper Alisson Becker has won a clutch of individual awards since joining the club in 2018 from Roma. Alisson was the FIFA Best Goalkeeper, Champions League Goalkeeper of the Season, and Premier League Golden Gloves winner all in 2019.
Liverpool Honours
First Division/Premier League
Winners (19): 1900–01, 1905–06, 1921–22, 1922–23, 1946–47, 1963–64, 1965–66, 1972–73, 1975–76, 1976–77, 1978–79, 1979–80, 1981–82, 1982–83, 1983–84, 1985–86, 1987–88, 1989–90, 2019–20
Second Division
Winners (4): 1893–94, 1895–96, 1904–05, 1961–62
FA Cup
Winners (8): 1964–65, 1973–74, 1985–86, 1988–89, 1991–92, 2000–01, 2005–06, 2021–22
Football League Cup/EFL Cup
Winners (10): 1980–81, 1981–82, 1982–83, 1983–84, 1994–95, 2000–01, 2002–03, 2011–12, 2021-22, 2023–24
Football League Super Cup
Winners (1): 1985–86
FA Charity Shield/FA Community Shield
Winners (16): 1964*, 1965*, 1966, 1974, 1976, 1977*, 1979, 1980, 1982, 1986*, 1988, 1989, 1990*, 2001, 2006 (* shared), 2022
European Cup/UEFA Champions League
Winners (6): 1976–77, 1977–78, 1980–81, 1983–84, 2004–05, 2018–19
UEFA Cup
Winners (3): 1972–73, 1975–76, 2000–01
European/UEFA Super Cup
Winners (4): 1977, 2001, 2005, 2019
FIFA Club World Cup
Winners (1): 2019
Liverpool All-Time Top Goalscorers
Ian Rush – 346 goals
Roger Hunt – 285 goals
Gordon Hodgson – 241 goals
Bill Liddell – 228 goals
Steven Gerrard – 186 goals
Liverpool Legends
Liverpool has had some of the most legendary players in English football history pull on the famous red shirt. It is difficult to narrow down a few of their famous players, but recent legends include Steve Gerrard and Jamie Carragher. Both came through the Liverpool academy. Robbie Fowler was another famed forward who emerged from the team's academy before succeeding in the first team.
King Kenny Dalglish
Kenny Dalglish, a name synonymous with Liverpool Football Club, left an indelible mark on the club as a player and manager. His tenure was marked by unparalleled success, cementing his status as one of the greatest figures in Liverpool's illustrious history.
Early Days and Player Career
Dalglish's journey with Liverpool began in 1977 when he joined the club from Celtic FC. As a player, he showcased exceptional skill, vision, and leadership on the pitch, becoming a pivotal figure in Liverpool's domestic and European dominance. His ability to score crucial goals and create opportunities endeared him to the fans, earning him the nickname "King Kenny."
Managerial Ascendancy
Following his retirement as a player, Dalglish transitioned into management, where he continued to leave an indelible mark on Liverpool FC. In 1985, he took over as player-manager after the tragic events of the Heysel Stadium disaster. Despite the immense pressure, Dalglish led Liverpool to a league and FA Cup double in his first season in charge, showcasing his tactical acumen and man-management skills.
European Glory and Domestic Dominance
Under Dalglish's guidance, Liverpool enjoyed unparalleled success, clinching multiple league titles and FA Cups. However, Dalglish truly shone in Europe, guiding Liverpool to victory in the UEFA Champions League in 1986-1987, etching his name in the annals of football history.
Legacy and Impact
Dalglish's impact on Liverpool FC extends far beyond the trophies he won. He instilled a winning mentality within the club and fostered a sense of unity among players and fans. His commitment to excellence and unwavering dedication to the club's success laid the foundation for future generations to emulate.
Enduring Influence and Honors
Even after he departed from the managerial role, Dalglish's influence at Liverpool remained palpable. His legacy continues to inspire players, managers, and supporters, serving as a constant reminder of the club's rich history and tradition. In recognition of his contributions, Dalglish has been honoured with numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the English Football Hall of Fame.
Kenny Dalglish's time at Liverpool FC represents a golden era marked by unprecedented success and an enduring legacy. As a player and manager, he exemplified the values of dedication, passion, and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on one of the most storied clubs in football history. His name will forever be synonymous with Liverpool FC, a testament to his status as one of the greatest figures in the sport.
Steven Gerrard: Liverpool's Heart and Soul
Steven Gerrard, an icon of Liverpool Football Club, left an indelible mark on the team during his illustrious career. From his debut as a youth player to his iconic moments as club captain, Gerrard's time at Liverpool is celebrated as a golden era in the club's history.
Early Days and Rise to Prominence
Steven Gerrard's journey with Liverpool FC began in the youth academy, where his exceptional talent and leadership skills quickly caught the eye of coaches and fans alike. His rapid rise through the ranks saw him make his first-team debut in 1998, marking the beginning of a legendary career.
Midfield Maestro and Heartbeat of the Team
Gerrard's influence on the pitch was unparalleled, earning him the reputation as one of the finest midfielders of his generation. His ability to dictate play, score crucial goals, and inspire his teammates made him the heartbeat of the Liverpool team for over a decade.
Champions League Glory and Iconic Moments
One of the defining moments of Gerrard's career came in the 2005 UEFA Champions League final, where he inspired Liverpool to a miraculous comeback victory against AC Milan. Gerrard's heroic performance that night cemented his status as a Liverpool legend and endeared him to fans worldwide.
Premier League Pursuit and Near Misses
Despite his numerous individual accolades and memorable performances, Gerrard's quest for Premier League glory with Liverpool remained elusive. However, his unwavering loyalty and dedication to the club never wavered, earning him the adoration and respect of supporters.
Captain Fantastic and Leadership
In 2003, Gerrard was named captain of Liverpool FC, a role he would fulfil with distinction for over a decade. As captain, Gerrard led by example, embodying the values of passion, determination, and resilience that define the club's ethos.
End of an Era and Legacy
Steven Gerrard's departure from Liverpool in 2015 marked the end of an era for the club. Fans were saddened by his decision to move on, but his legacy at Liverpool FC remains untarnished. Gerrard's impact on the club transcends his playing career, inspiring future generations of players.
Post-Playing Career and Managerial Aspirations
Since retiring as a player, Gerrard has embarked on a managerial career, with aspirations of one day returning to Liverpool FC as manager. His passion for the club and intimate understanding of its culture make him a natural candidate to lead Liverpool into a new era of success.
Recent Top Players
In the last 10 years, the likes of Sadio Mane, Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Roberto Firmino have risen to the forefront of world football as stars at Anfield.
Here are some other all-time great players to pull on the Liverpool FC shirt.
Ian Rush
Jamie Carragher
Robbie Fowler
Xabi Alonso
John Barnes
Kevin Keegan
Graeme Souness
Luis Suarez
Sami Hyypia
Michael Owen
Fernando Torres
Alan Hansen
Ray Clemence
Steve McManaman
Ian Callaghan
John Arne Riise
Dirt Kuyt
Emlyn Hughes
Peter Beardsley
Pepe Reina
Phil Neal
Liverpool Managers
Liverpool's modern-day success begins with Bill Shankly. The Scotsman took charge of the team in 1959. Since Shankly's departure, Liverpool has had just 13 managers, while clubs like Chelsea have had 13 managers in the last 20 years. The Boot Room managers were in charge for decades at Liverpool with Bob Paisley and Joe Fagan following on as coach.
Legendary players Kenny Dalglish and Graeme Souness managed the team in the late 1980s and 1990s. Liverpool looked to French manager Gerard Houllier to lead the way as the millennium came. His success was followed by Rafael Benitez and Jurgen Klopp, who brought Liverpool's 30-year Premier League title wait to an end.
Bill Shankly: Architect of Liverpool's Glory Years
Bill Shankly, a revered figure in the football world, is regarded as the architect of Liverpool Football Club's golden era. His tenure at Liverpool was marked by unprecedented success, transforming the club into a domestic and European powerhouse.
Early Days and Arrival at Liverpool
Bill Shankly's journey with Liverpool FC began in 1959 when he was appointed manager. From a successful stint at Huddersfield Town, Shankly brought a vision and determination to elevate Liverpool to greatness.
Transformation of the Club
Upon his arrival, Shankly immediately revolutionised every aspect of the club, from the training ground to the playing style. His meticulous attention to detail and emphasis on discipline laid the foundation for future success, instilling a winning mentality within the squad.
Promotion and First Division Glory
Shankly's masterful guidance saw Liverpool gain promotion to the First Division in 1962, marking the beginning of an era of dominance. Under his leadership, Liverpool went on to clinch multiple First Division titles, establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in English football.
European Conquests
While Shankly's primary focus was on domestic success, he also led Liverpool to their first taste of European glory. In 1973, Liverpool won the UEFA Cup under Shankly's stewardship, laying the groundwork for future European triumphs.
Shankly's Legacy and Impact
Beyond the trophies and accolades, Shankly's impact on Liverpool FC transcends his time at the club. He fostered a sense of unity and camaraderie among players and fans, creating a formidable bond to this day. Shankly's legacy is a guiding light for future generations, reminding them of the values of hard work, dedication, and passion.
Honours and Recognition
Bill Shankly's contributions to Liverpool FC have been widely recognized and honoured. He has been immortalized with a statue outside Anfield, constantly reminding him of his enduring legacy. In addition, the Bill Shankly Memorial Foundation continues to preserve and celebrate his memory, ensuring that his impact on the club and the city of Liverpool will never be forgotten.
Bill Shankly's time at Liverpool FC represents a pivotal period in the club's history, characterized by unprecedented success and an enduring legacy. His visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to excellence transformed Liverpool into a footballing powerhouse, laying the groundwork for future triumphs. Shankly's name will forever be synonymous with Liverpool FC, serving as a testament to his status as one of the greatest managers in the sport's history.
Other Liverpool managers include:
