The most significant signing in the history of Liverpool didn’t even get near to a three-figure sum.
The date of May 8, 1939, may not be a day etched in the mind of even the most die-hard of Reds.
And yet, it represents the day that one of the most iconic figures in the club’s distinguished history first walked through the doors at Anfield.
The story of Bob Paisley-Greatest ever signing of Liverpool
Left-back Bob Paisley signed as a player for a meagre fee of £10. While the current incumbent of that position, Andy Robertson, is considered one of the great Premier League bargains. Having joined from Hull City in 2017.
The single note used to acquire Paisley from Bishop Auckland would eventually change the face of English football.
The beginning of World War II would ultimately delay the boyish-looking 20-year-old from making an impact. He was called up by the army and assigned to the Royal Artillery.
In the 7 years that followed the defender would occasionally get clearance to return to Merseyside. He would play games, but it wasn’t until January 1946 that he would make his official club debut.
A further 12 years of service followed. Although the First Division title win in his debut league campaign would signify his only trophy with the Reds as a player.
After retiring in 1954, he remained at the club and served on the back room staff as self-taught a physiotherapist. And then coach, before becoming assistant manager to Bill Shankly in 1959.
The duo would form a famous partnership in the 15 years that followed. They would go on to establish Liverpool as one of the dominant forces in English football.
But when the Scottish boss suddenly retired, Paisley took the reins. And soon, it wasn’t just domestic success that club supporters were lauding.
The 9 years that followed represents Liverpool’s most golden period, and one that laid the foundations for the club to establish a global appeal. After finishing second in the 1974/75 campaign, the team proceeded to win the league title and UEFA Cup in 1976.
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