Shades of Shankly in Ferguson
This summer I stumbled across a television interview with Bill Shankly. It was recorded in 1976, about two years after he had resigned from Liverpool.
But while most fans know a Shankly quote or two - usually the one about football not being a matter of life and death, but much more important than that - you hardly ever see him on film.
What really struck me about him was just how similar his mannerisms and body language were to those of Sir Alex Ferguson.
It's not just the growling accent or the sharp eyes which dart about and explore the questioner for any hint of weakness, but an aura laced with self-confidence and a surprising degree of physical intimidation given their ages - Shankly was 63 at the time of that interview, Ferguson is 69.
Legendary Liverpool FC manager William 'Bill' Shankly, OBE (Sept 2, 1913 - Sept 29, 1981) was one of Britain's most successful and respected managers. PHOTO: PA
Shankly was discussing his autobiography, in which he had criticised Liverpool for the way he felt he had been treated by them after his decision to leave.
He had built Liverpool from a second-tier team to one which was beginning to dominate English football and which, in his last game, won the 1974 FA Cup Final.
Sadly for Shankly, he seemed to regret his decision to quit almost immediately. He would turn up at Liverpool's training ground to watch until it became clear he was just making life difficult for Bob Paisley, who had replaced him.
He would sit amongst the fans at Anfield rather than the directors' box, he'd go to watch Everton, he'd even travel away with Tranmere Rovers, who were then managed by one of his greatest signings, Ron Yeats.
The final straw for Shankly was being invited to the second leg of the 1976 Uefa Cup Final, only to be put up in a hotel well away from the team. He looked like a lost soul, a warrior in search of a battle to fight.
A decade ago, Sir Alex Ferguson announced that season, 2001-02, would be his last. The following February he changed his mind and the rest, as they say, is history.
With 10 more major trophies secured, Ferguson's place in the pantheon of greats is utterly assured. And he remains as fit, healthy and sharp as ever.
Bob Paisley took over Shankly's team and made it even better, the best in Europe.
The question which begs to be asked is what would have happened over the last 10 years at United had Ferguson stuck by his original decision to stand down? We'll never know.
The question which begs to be asked is what would have happened over the last 10 years at United had Ferguson stuck by his original decision to stand down? We'll never know.
Swansea City, then managed by ex-Liverpool striker John Toshack, were the first visitors to Anfield after Shankly's death in the autumn of 1981. This weekend the Welsh club hosts its first game in the top flight in 28 years.
I can't wait for my first visit to the Liberty Stadium - I'm told it's really something when the home fans get going.
It's the 51st stadium to host Premier League football - a pat on the back to anyone who can come up with the other 50 without the help of Wikipedia!
