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Liverpool are crowned Premier League champions – live reaction! Liverpool are crowned Premier League champions – live reaction!
(32 minutes later)
Rolling report: It’s been a long time coming, but Liverpool have won their first league title in 30 years. Scott Murray has reactionRolling report: It’s been a long time coming, but Liverpool have won their first league title in 30 years. Scott Murray has reaction
Speaking of goals, here’s how Liverpool have spread them out this season:
17: Mohamed Salah15: Sadio Mane8: Roberto Firmino4: Virgil van Dijk3: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jordan Henderson, Divock Origi, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, Georginio Wijnaldum2: Fabinho, James Milner, own goals1: Naby Keita, Adam Lallana, Joel Matip, Andy Robertson, Xherdan Shaqiri
A message from Liverpool’s leading goalscorer this season ...
♫ ♯ Thank you for the days, those endless days, those sacred days you gave me / I’m thinking of the days, I won’t forget a single day, believe me ♯ ♫ Less than ten years ago, this was happening. Never give up hope, kids. There’s always hope.
Jordan Henderson has become the first Liverpool captain since Alan Hansen to lead his team to the championship. He’s been struggling to take it all in. Here’s what he told Liverpool’s official website:
Liverpool have passed up some chances to win the Premier League before, of course. Think back to 1996-97, 2002-03 and last season. But none were as bitter as 2013-14. Let’s not rake over old coals, suffice to say that an old friend is very happy this morning.Liverpool have passed up some chances to win the Premier League before, of course. Think back to 1996-97, 2002-03 and last season. But none were as bitter as 2013-14. Let’s not rake over old coals, suffice to say that an old friend is very happy this morning.
It was 30 years ago today ... give or take a couple of months. Here’s how the Observer reported on Liverpool’s slightly fortuitous deal-sealing victory over QPR at the business end of the 1989-90 season. Thanks to Jason Rodrigues for doing the digging. Aston Villa fans may enjoy the final paragraph, a harbinger of things to come.It was 30 years ago today ... give or take a couple of months. Here’s how the Observer reported on Liverpool’s slightly fortuitous deal-sealing victory over QPR at the business end of the 1989-90 season. Thanks to Jason Rodrigues for doing the digging. Aston Villa fans may enjoy the final paragraph, a harbinger of things to come.
Player ratings. Our man on Merseyside, Andy Hunter, has run the rule over Liverpool’s first title-winning squad since the days ofPlayer ratings. Our man on Merseyside, Andy Hunter, has run the rule over Liverpool’s first title-winning squad since the days of
Mike Marsh, Nick Tanner and David BurrowsMike Marsh, Nick Tanner and David Burrows
Ian Rush, John Barnes and Alan Hansen. Here’s his verdict ... and he hasn’t gone in two-footed on Dejan Lovren, we’re all about spreading the love today. Ian Rush, John Barnes and Alan Hansen. Here’s his verdict ... and he hasn’t gone in two-footed on Dejan Lovren, we’re all about spreading the love today.
Now’s as good a moment as any for some cheap triumphalism. As Mohamed Salah said the other day, it’s Liverpool’s time. So here’s a not-particularly-comprehensive list of most major trophies won by English clubs.Now’s as good a moment as any for some cheap triumphalism. As Mohamed Salah said the other day, it’s Liverpool’s time. So here’s a not-particularly-comprehensive list of most major trophies won by English clubs.
48: Liverpool45: Manchester United30: Arsenal48: Liverpool45: Manchester United30: Arsenal
Of course, United have 20 English titles to Liverpool’s shiny new total of 19, and as Bill Shankly was fond of saying, that’s the “bread and butter”. So it’s swings and roundabouts, depending on your allegiance / mood.Of course, United have 20 English titles to Liverpool’s shiny new total of 19, and as Bill Shankly was fond of saying, that’s the “bread and butter”. So it’s swings and roundabouts, depending on your allegiance / mood.
Good morning Liverpool fans.Good morning Liverpool fans.
And I will bid you farewell and hand over to my colleague in London, Scott Murray, with a few of the newspaper headlines Liverpool fans will be waking up to this morning (quite possibly with sore heads).And I will bid you farewell and hand over to my colleague in London, Scott Murray, with a few of the newspaper headlines Liverpool fans will be waking up to this morning (quite possibly with sore heads).
CORONAVIRUS CHAOS ON THE BEACHES dominates most of the front pages, but “Kop Idols” is the headline in the Express, while the Daily Star goes for “On Klopp of the World”. “Kop Kings” is in the Metro, while “The wait is over” appears in the Mirror. The back page of this esteemed publication goes with the headline from Barney Ronay’s excellent piece: A sporting machine at the peak of it power. Which you can read here.CORONAVIRUS CHAOS ON THE BEACHES dominates most of the front pages, but “Kop Idols” is the headline in the Express, while the Daily Star goes for “On Klopp of the World”. “Kop Kings” is in the Metro, while “The wait is over” appears in the Mirror. The back page of this esteemed publication goes with the headline from Barney Ronay’s excellent piece: A sporting machine at the peak of it power. Which you can read here.
We’ve heard how police have warned of the Covid-19 risks associated with large gatherings such as the one seen around Anfield last night. Here are some more details of where other celebrations were going on, courtesy of Reuters:We’ve heard how police have warned of the Covid-19 risks associated with large gatherings such as the one seen around Anfield last night. Here are some more details of where other celebrations were going on, courtesy of Reuters:
The celebrations took over the city centre, with the Cunard Building, by the Pier Head, lit up in red for the night. Elsewhere, St Luke’s Church, known locally as the bombed-out church, became a focal point for fans to congregate, let off fireworks and go through their repertoire of songs. Cars were kept out of the area by police but supporters around the city blared their horns in jubilation.The celebrations took over the city centre, with the Cunard Building, by the Pier Head, lit up in red for the night. Elsewhere, St Luke’s Church, known locally as the bombed-out church, became a focal point for fans to congregate, let off fireworks and go through their repertoire of songs. Cars were kept out of the area by police but supporters around the city blared their horns in jubilation.
The combination of flares, smoke and fans certainly made for some wonderful photographs though. Here’s a gallery with the pick of the bunch:The combination of flares, smoke and fans certainly made for some wonderful photographs though. Here’s a gallery with the pick of the bunch:
I don’t think we’ve covered off the thoughts of these former players yet, so here they are.I don’t think we’ve covered off the thoughts of these former players yet, so here they are.
Luis Garcia: “... What a fantastic achievement. Congrats to all the players, staff and board member. I’m not forgetting the supporters. Enjoy the moment, it’s been a long time but finally is here!!”Luis Garcia: “... What a fantastic achievement. Congrats to all the players, staff and board member. I’m not forgetting the supporters. Enjoy the moment, it’s been a long time but finally is here!!”
Fernando Torres: “... Unbelievable squad, magnificent manager, great staff but above all my sincere congrats to every single LFC supporter. You’ve been waiting so long and finally that desired trophy is yours. Very well deserved. YNWA.”Pepe Reina: “... Award more than deserved after an excellent season... 30 years later. Today I feel more than proud of having belonged to this great club.”Fernando Torres: “... Unbelievable squad, magnificent manager, great staff but above all my sincere congrats to every single LFC supporter. You’ve been waiting so long and finally that desired trophy is yours. Very well deserved. YNWA.”Pepe Reina: “... Award more than deserved after an excellent season... 30 years later. Today I feel more than proud of having belonged to this great club.”
And not a former player, but a pretty important figure, owner John Henry: “This was a season for the ages and for the faithful of Liverpool Football Club. It has been an incredible year of magnificent achievement culminating tonight in capturing the Premier League title.”And not a former player, but a pretty important figure, owner John Henry: “This was a season for the ages and for the faithful of Liverpool Football Club. It has been an incredible year of magnificent achievement culminating tonight in capturing the Premier League title.”
This just in from my colleague, Martin Farrer, on the large numbers of fans who gathered at Anfield last night which prompted warnings from police concerned about people flouting social-distancing rules.This just in from my colleague, Martin Farrer, on the large numbers of fans who gathered at Anfield last night which prompted warnings from police concerned about people flouting social-distancing rules.
Merseyside police Asst Chief Cons Rob Carden said the region had been “disproportionately affected” by the coronavirus pandemic and its residents had a responsibility to prevent further cases.Merseyside police Asst Chief Cons Rob Carden said the region had been “disproportionately affected” by the coronavirus pandemic and its residents had a responsibility to prevent further cases.
Read the full story here:Read the full story here:
More reaction, if you can handle it, and perhaps some insight into why this team is so far ahead of others (Papa Klopp).More reaction, if you can handle it, and perhaps some insight into why this team is so far ahead of others (Papa Klopp).
Andy Robertson: “As a squad we’re so close. We love coming in to training every single day. If somebody is having a bad game, we dig them out of a hole and we stick together on the pitch, we stick together off the pitch – that’s why this squad is so special. I love being a part of it.Andy Robertson: “As a squad we’re so close. We love coming in to training every single day. If somebody is having a bad game, we dig them out of a hole and we stick together on the pitch, we stick together off the pitch – that’s why this squad is so special. I love being a part of it.
“We’re all kind of brothers and we have a dad figure in the gaffer and he’s the one that leads us in the right direction. Him and his staff have been second to none, to be fair, since I’ve came here. This season they’ve been excellent to us going, keep us hungry, keep us motivated.“We’re all kind of brothers and we have a dad figure in the gaffer and he’s the one that leads us in the right direction. Him and his staff have been second to none, to be fair, since I’ve came here. This season they’ve been excellent to us going, keep us hungry, keep us motivated.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: “Obviously things are not as we imagined probably a few months ago or even a year ago how we imagined to win the Premier League, but we are not going to complain and make a fuss of. It’s something we’ve always dreamed of. As fans I think it’s something that will always be remembered.”Trent Alexander-Arnold: “Obviously things are not as we imagined probably a few months ago or even a year ago how we imagined to win the Premier League, but we are not going to complain and make a fuss of. It’s something we’ve always dreamed of. As fans I think it’s something that will always be remembered.”
A “completely overwhelmed” Klopp has spoken of the countdown to the final whistle at Stamford Bridge, while watching on from afar. “In that moment it was a pure explosion... then pure... I cannot describe it. It was a really nice moment.”A “completely overwhelmed” Klopp has spoken of the countdown to the final whistle at Stamford Bridge, while watching on from afar. “In that moment it was a pure explosion... then pure... I cannot describe it. It was a really nice moment.”
If this moment in history doesn’t call for peace and love from one of the Fab Four, I don’t know what does.If this moment in history doesn’t call for peace and love from one of the Fab Four, I don’t know what does.
Praise is flowing as freely as a bloated Mersey on a rainy day, and as you’d expect it’s a bit of a love-in. Several Liverpool greats have been queuing up to heap praise on Klopp’s side with Kenny Dalglish, Graeme Souness and Mark Lawrenson all acknowledging the job Klopp has done.Praise is flowing as freely as a bloated Mersey on a rainy day, and as you’d expect it’s a bit of a love-in. Several Liverpool greats have been queuing up to heap praise on Klopp’s side with Kenny Dalglish, Graeme Souness and Mark Lawrenson all acknowledging the job Klopp has done.
Dalglish oversaw the club’s last triumph 30 years ago said he would never have expected to have waiting so long for another. “If you would have said that, you would have been arrested and sectioned,” Dalglish told BT Sport. “Sometimes things happen, but certainly the last two years and since Juergen has come in it’s been very positive. He’s been fantastic and epitomises everything Liverpool stand for, he appreciates and respects everyone that works at the club.Dalglish oversaw the club’s last triumph 30 years ago said he would never have expected to have waiting so long for another. “If you would have said that, you would have been arrested and sectioned,” Dalglish told BT Sport. “Sometimes things happen, but certainly the last two years and since Juergen has come in it’s been very positive. He’s been fantastic and epitomises everything Liverpool stand for, he appreciates and respects everyone that works at the club.
“Whatever he gets he deserves. It’s not a one-off because last year they came within a point of it, this year they’ve only lost one, drawn two. They won a club world championship, they won the Champions League last year as well. Onward and upwards and I think we’ve got a lot more happy days to come as long as Jürgen’s there.”“Whatever he gets he deserves. It’s not a one-off because last year they came within a point of it, this year they’ve only lost one, drawn two. They won a club world championship, they won the Champions League last year as well. Onward and upwards and I think we’ve got a lot more happy days to come as long as Jürgen’s there.”
Souness told Sky: “It’s not just about this season. This is a special team. This is a team that nobody enjoys playing against... They give everything... when you combine that effort and the quality they have... they’re some team.”Souness told Sky: “It’s not just about this season. This is a special team. This is a team that nobody enjoys playing against... They give everything... when you combine that effort and the quality they have... they’re some team.”
And Lawrenson was full of praise for Klopp in his column in the Times. “Jürgen has... embraced Liverpool’s past. After all, the past is why he came here. He knew what could be achieved and what is being achieved. It didn’t frighten him ... that the club had been without the title for so long.”And Lawrenson was full of praise for Klopp in his column in the Times. “Jürgen has... embraced Liverpool’s past. After all, the past is why he came here. He knew what could be achieved and what is being achieved. It didn’t frighten him ... that the club had been without the title for so long.”
You know what they say, “red sky in the morning, Liverpool won the title the night before”.You know what they say, “red sky in the morning, Liverpool won the title the night before”.
More from Klopp now, courtesy of the club’s official website: the German has dedicated the victory to fans, and picked out several former players and managers. This is why he is loved by Liverpool fans, he gets the club.More from Klopp now, courtesy of the club’s official website: the German has dedicated the victory to fans, and picked out several former players and managers. This is why he is loved by Liverpool fans, he gets the club.
“My message is: it’s for you out there ... I hope you feel it. It’s for so many people. Kenny Dalglish and Graeme Souness spoke to me ... they were very positive. That’s nice but it’s thanks to them because this club is built on what they did. It’s built ... on [Bill] Shankly, [Bob] Paisley and [Joe] Fagan and all the others, but on these players... Steven Gerrard – this club’s built on, in the last 20 years, on Stevie’s legs. He had to carry all the pressure. He did that exceptionally.“My message is: it’s for you out there ... I hope you feel it. It’s for so many people. Kenny Dalglish and Graeme Souness spoke to me ... they were very positive. That’s nice but it’s thanks to them because this club is built on what they did. It’s built ... on [Bill] Shankly, [Bob] Paisley and [Joe] Fagan and all the others, but on these players... Steven Gerrard – this club’s built on, in the last 20 years, on Stevie’s legs. He had to carry all the pressure. He did that exceptionally.
“The boys love being part of this club, they love being part of the story of this club and the history. It’s so nice how we learned how to deal with the history, how we learned to use the history in the last two years.”“The boys love being part of this club, they love being part of the story of this club and the history. It’s so nice how we learned how to deal with the history, how we learned to use the history in the last two years.”
Klopp said he had made sure everyone watched the match together.Klopp said he had made sure everyone watched the match together.
“There was no alternative... we thought about it, shall we do something and then we thought maybe not compulsory, the boys have to drive a bit. Then I said, ‘no, we have to make it compulsory, everybody has to be there,’ because I’m more experienced... I know who will stay at home and watch it alone will regret it for the rest of his life.”“There was no alternative... we thought about it, shall we do something and then we thought maybe not compulsory, the boys have to drive a bit. Then I said, ‘no, we have to make it compulsory, everybody has to be there,’ because I’m more experienced... I know who will stay at home and watch it alone will regret it for the rest of his life.”
And of course he wouldn’t forget his backroom staff, which so many past Liverpool dynasties have been built on.And of course he wouldn’t forget his backroom staff, which so many past Liverpool dynasties have been built on.
“Thirty years ago… 30 years ago… I was 23, so I didn’t think too much about winning a title with Liverpool, to be honest! I had no skills for that! Thirty years later I am here and because of the great staff I have, it is unbelievable.”“Thirty years ago… 30 years ago… I was 23, so I didn’t think too much about winning a title with Liverpool, to be honest! I had no skills for that! Thirty years later I am here and because of the great staff I have, it is unbelievable.”
Thanks Bryan in New York. The baton is now passed across to Sydney for continued coverage of this story, which has thoroughly global significance.Thanks Bryan in New York. The baton is now passed across to Sydney for continued coverage of this story, which has thoroughly global significance.
For now though, let’s just enjoy some of the reaction on the streets of Liverpool, while trying to forget there’s still a pandemic raging for just a moment.For now though, let’s just enjoy some of the reaction on the streets of Liverpool, while trying to forget there’s still a pandemic raging for just a moment.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was at a loss for words on Thursday when prompted to express the feeling of ending the club’s three-decade hoodoo.Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson was at a loss for words on Thursday when prompted to express the feeling of ending the club’s three-decade hoodoo.
“I could never in words describe the feeling of winning the Premier League, just like I couldn’t describe winning the Champions League,” the 30-year-old midfielder told the club’s website. “It’s a unique feeling and one that, again, I’m very proud of. I’ve been so honoured to be part of this football club right from the first moment that I came and to go on the journey to be with this manager, this group of players, these fans – it’s been so special. But we’ll enjoy this, we’ll celebrate, but then I know in the next few days they’ll be straight onto the next game, which is City, and finishing the season off as well as we can.“I could never in words describe the feeling of winning the Premier League, just like I couldn’t describe winning the Champions League,” the 30-year-old midfielder told the club’s website. “It’s a unique feeling and one that, again, I’m very proud of. I’ve been so honoured to be part of this football club right from the first moment that I came and to go on the journey to be with this manager, this group of players, these fans – it’s been so special. But we’ll enjoy this, we’ll celebrate, but then I know in the next few days they’ll be straight onto the next game, which is City, and finishing the season off as well as we can.
“We want to win every game and we want to finish off with the highest points record we can and give that everything we’ve got and then we’ll go into next season and we’ll want even more. So it’s about just keeping that hunger and I’ve got no doubt that we’ve got that because we’ve proved that over the past couple of years.”“We want to win every game and we want to finish off with the highest points record we can and give that everything we’ve got and then we’ll go into next season and we’ll want even more. So it’s about just keeping that hunger and I’ve got no doubt that we’ve got that because we’ve proved that over the past couple of years.”
Asked to describe Liverpool’s motivation to come back even stronger after last year’s historic, doomed title race with Man City, Henderson invoked the club’s hardened constitution while pointing to a future of limitless promise.Asked to describe Liverpool’s motivation to come back even stronger after last year’s historic, doomed title race with Man City, Henderson invoked the club’s hardened constitution while pointing to a future of limitless promise.
“I think you can use that as a motivation and that as extra energy to keep going and to want to do it really, to want to get over the line and finish the job off,” he said. “Last season we played so well and were so unlucky, but City were amazing and they managed pip us in the end. We kept going right until the last day and that’s all we could ask for really. Obviously a few weeks later winning the Champions League helped, and then I think we’ve kicked on again and we’ve been unbelievable this season.“I think you can use that as a motivation and that as extra energy to keep going and to want to do it really, to want to get over the line and finish the job off,” he said. “Last season we played so well and were so unlucky, but City were amazing and they managed pip us in the end. We kept going right until the last day and that’s all we could ask for really. Obviously a few weeks later winning the Champions League helped, and then I think we’ve kicked on again and we’ve been unbelievable this season.
“For now it’s about keeping on improving, keeping on doing the things we’ve been doing to get to this point but also keep improving, learning even more and if we do that then I’m pretty sure there’ll be more trophies available to us in the near future.”“For now it’s about keeping on improving, keeping on doing the things we’ve been doing to get to this point but also keep improving, learning even more and if we do that then I’m pretty sure there’ll be more trophies available to us in the near future.”
Thousands of Liverpool supporters descended on Anfield Road on Thursday night to revel in the club’s first top-flight title in three decades. While the celebrations were roundly peaceful, the social distancing guidelines in response to the coronavirus pandemic were in many cases all but ignored.Thousands of Liverpool supporters descended on Anfield Road on Thursday night to revel in the club’s first top-flight title in three decades. While the celebrations were roundly peaceful, the social distancing guidelines in response to the coronavirus pandemic were in many cases all but ignored.
That prompted the following statement from assistant chief constable Rob Carden of Merseyside Police early Friday morning:That prompted the following statement from assistant chief constable Rob Carden of Merseyside Police early Friday morning:
My colleague Andy Hunter has followed up his match report with a sidebar on Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who became overcome with emotion in the immediate aftermath of Thursday’s long-awaited 19th top-flight title.My colleague Andy Hunter has followed up his match report with a sidebar on Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp, who became overcome with emotion in the immediate aftermath of Thursday’s long-awaited 19th top-flight title.
“It’s much more than I ever thought would be possible,” the 53-year-old said. “Becoming champion with this club is absolutely incredible.”“It’s much more than I ever thought would be possible,” the 53-year-old said. “Becoming champion with this club is absolutely incredible.”
Champions of England, champions of Europe and champions of the world. The latter of which includes such far-flung locales as New Zealand, from where reader Catherine Downes writes in to say: “My husband Maciek playing the Liverpool anthem as we celebrate!”Champions of England, champions of Europe and champions of the world. The latter of which includes such far-flung locales as New Zealand, from where reader Catherine Downes writes in to say: “My husband Maciek playing the Liverpool anthem as we celebrate!”
NBA superstar LeBron James, the 35-year-old centerpiece of the Los Angeles Lakers who obtained a 2% stake in Fenway Sports Group back in 2011, was among the first to congratulate Liverpool on today’s long-awaited Premier League title.NBA superstar LeBron James, the 35-year-old centerpiece of the Los Angeles Lakers who obtained a 2% stake in Fenway Sports Group back in 2011, was among the first to congratulate Liverpool on today’s long-awaited Premier League title.
At the time, James’s piece of the team was valued at around $6.5m (£5.2). These days it’s reported to be worth at least five times that much.At the time, James’s piece of the team was valued at around $6.5m (£5.2). These days it’s reported to be worth at least five times that much.
James, whose Lakers have sat at the top of the Western Conference for most of a NBA season that was postponed in March due to Covid-19, would be the last person to call himself a week-in-week-out Kopite.James, whose Lakers have sat at the top of the Western Conference for most of a NBA season that was postponed in March due to Covid-19, would be the last person to call himself a week-in-week-out Kopite.
But the four-time Most Valuable Player, whom some have said is a better rebounder and passer than Michael Jordan, has been known to surface at Anfield over the years for the prestige fixtures.But the four-time Most Valuable Player, whom some have said is a better rebounder and passer than Michael Jordan, has been known to surface at Anfield over the years for the prestige fixtures.
The sun is just going down in New York but Reds throughout the city are raging on into the night. Typically the center of the party would be the 11th Street Pub in the East Village, which is the headquarters of the Liverpool FC Supporter’s Club of NYC, in addition to the six other bars across the city LFCNY works with to accommodate overflow crowd. But the coronavirus pandemic mostly left the group’s 750-strong membership, which Wells estimates are half Americans and half expats, watching today’s match separately while keeping in touch via Zoom and WhatsApp.The sun is just going down in New York but Reds throughout the city are raging on into the night. Typically the center of the party would be the 11th Street Pub in the East Village, which is the headquarters of the Liverpool FC Supporter’s Club of NYC, in addition to the six other bars across the city LFCNY works with to accommodate overflow crowd. But the coronavirus pandemic mostly left the group’s 750-strong membership, which Wells estimates are half Americans and half expats, watching today’s match separately while keeping in touch via Zoom and WhatsApp.
“Due to Covid most people watched at home, but a few of our bars with outdoor space were able to host small crowds,” LFCNY president Justin Wells tells the Guardian. “We’re planning some sort of party at 11th Street when it’s safe.”“Due to Covid most people watched at home, but a few of our bars with outdoor space were able to host small crowds,” LFCNY president Justin Wells tells the Guardian. “We’re planning some sort of party at 11th Street when it’s safe.”
David Rose, 46, was among the Liverpool natives who took in Thursday’s long-awaited title clincher a long way from home.David Rose, 46, was among the Liverpool natives who took in Thursday’s long-awaited title clincher a long way from home.
“We were two wins away from glory when the lockdown happened and I’d been planning on being back in Liverpool for what would surely be a homecoming parade with the trophy, which I watched as an almost annual event as a kid stood on Queen’s Drive,” Rose says. “I wanted to see that so bad. Today watching two teams that weren’t mine, on a janky monitor in my sweaty back room, on the other side of the world, and with only a Stella to keep me company ... I think it was the greatest league victory of them all. Liverpool or Brownsville, it feels like the greatest thing that could happen has happened, and a virus can’t take that away.“We were two wins away from glory when the lockdown happened and I’d been planning on being back in Liverpool for what would surely be a homecoming parade with the trophy, which I watched as an almost annual event as a kid stood on Queen’s Drive,” Rose says. “I wanted to see that so bad. Today watching two teams that weren’t mine, on a janky monitor in my sweaty back room, on the other side of the world, and with only a Stella to keep me company ... I think it was the greatest league victory of them all. Liverpool or Brownsville, it feels like the greatest thing that could happen has happened, and a virus can’t take that away.
“You see, there’s this lad from Liverpool called Trent, and he’s only gone and got himself a Premier League champion’s medal.”“You see, there’s this lad from Liverpool called Trent, and he’s only gone and got himself a Premier League champion’s medal.”
Liverpool’s dominant season in chart form:Liverpool’s dominant season in chart form:
It’s 1am in the UK, and I suspect/hope the Liverpool players are very, very drunk. I’m going to hand over to Bryan Armen Graham in the US. Thanks for your company and emails on an iconic date in English football history. In 1990, you’d have got seriously long odds on Liverpool winning their next title on 25 June 2020.It’s 1am in the UK, and I suspect/hope the Liverpool players are very, very drunk. I’m going to hand over to Bryan Armen Graham in the US. Thanks for your company and emails on an iconic date in English football history. In 1990, you’d have got seriously long odds on Liverpool winning their next title on 25 June 2020.
You’ll all have your favourite memory of the season. There were many more spectacular moments, but I still think this second goal exemplifies the exhilarating brilliance and leadpipe cruelty of this Liverpool side.You’ll all have your favourite memory of the season. There were many more spectacular moments, but I still think this second goal exemplifies the exhilarating brilliance and leadpipe cruelty of this Liverpool side.
A bit more from the wiresA bit more from the wires
Steven Gerrard hailed Liverpool’s “incredible achievement” in being crowned champions for the first time in the Premier League era.Steven Gerrard hailed Liverpool’s “incredible achievement” in being crowned champions for the first time in the Premier League era.
The Reds were handed the crown on Thursday night as Manchester City’s loss to Chelsea left them 23 points behind the leaders with seven games left to play.The Reds were handed the crown on Thursday night as Manchester City’s loss to Chelsea left them 23 points behind the leaders with seven games left to play.
Among those marking the achievement was former skipper Gerrard, who won two FA Cups and a Champions League with the club but never claimed a league title.Among those marking the achievement was former skipper Gerrard, who won two FA Cups and a Champions League with the club but never claimed a league title.
Gerrard, now manager of Rangers, wrote on Instagram: “Congratulations to all liverpoolfc on winning the premier league. Incredible achievement from a fantastic squad of top players.Gerrard, now manager of Rangers, wrote on Instagram: “Congratulations to all liverpoolfc on winning the premier league. Incredible achievement from a fantastic squad of top players.
“Lead by a world class manager and coaching team also a special mention for the backing from FSG. And lastly and most importantly the fans who have waited 30 years. Let the party begin.”“Lead by a world class manager and coaching team also a special mention for the backing from FSG. And lastly and most importantly the fans who have waited 30 years. Let the party begin.”
One of Gerrard’s former team-mates, Michael Owen, tweeted: “Congratulations LFC What an unbelievable season and the best team by a mile!”One of Gerrard’s former team-mates, Michael Owen, tweeted: “Congratulations LFC What an unbelievable season and the best team by a mile!”
Liverpool’s current players were also tweeting as they watched events unfold at Stamford Bridge, as footage circulated around social media which appeared to show many of them watching the game together.Liverpool’s current players were also tweeting as they watched events unfold at Stamford Bridge, as footage circulated around social media which appeared to show many of them watching the game together.
Full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold wrote on Twitter: “Championssss!!!!”Full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold wrote on Twitter: “Championssss!!!!”
Midfielder James Milner wrote: “30 years Reds! Let’s enjoy it! Honoured to be part of this team & this club”Midfielder James Milner wrote: “30 years Reds! Let’s enjoy it! Honoured to be part of this team & this club”
Referencing those who died in the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, defender Dejan Lovren wrote: “96 - Dream came true”Referencing those who died in the Hillsborough disaster in 1989, defender Dejan Lovren wrote: “96 - Dream came true”
And posting a screenshot from his phone showing four missed calls from Alexander-Arnold, Andy Robertson joked: “Wonder what he wants”And posting a screenshot from his phone showing four missed calls from Alexander-Arnold, Andy Robertson joked: “Wonder what he wants”
Luis Garcia, a Champions League winner with the Reds in 2005, tweeted: “Congratulations to LFC!! What a fantastic achievement.Luis Garcia, a Champions League winner with the Reds in 2005, tweeted: “Congratulations to LFC!! What a fantastic achievement.
“Congrats to all the players, staff and board member. I’m not forgetting the Supporters. Enjoy the moment, it’s been a long time but finally is here !!”“Congrats to all the players, staff and board member. I’m not forgetting the Supporters. Enjoy the moment, it’s been a long time but finally is here !!”
Another member of that Champions League winning team, Djimi Traore, wrote: “Congratulations to LFC for winning premier league 2019-20. Well deserve trophy for klopp and his team.fantastic achievement for LFC YNWA”Another member of that Champions League winning team, Djimi Traore, wrote: “Congratulations to LFC for winning premier league 2019-20. Well deserve trophy for klopp and his team.fantastic achievement for LFC YNWA”
Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge posted a video of himself celebrating with an inflatable trophy. Aldridge, who won the league with the Reds in 1987-88, tweeted: “What a wonderful feeling for all LFC fans across the globe!Love it,Absolutely smashed the league to bits”Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge posted a video of himself celebrating with an inflatable trophy. Aldridge, who won the league with the Reds in 1987-88, tweeted: “What a wonderful feeling for all LFC fans across the globe!Love it,Absolutely smashed the league to bits”
Another past Liverpool striker, Fernando Torres, wrote: “Huge congrats to everyone at LFC on winning the premierleague. Unbelievable squad, magnificent manager, great staff but above all my sincere congrats to every single LFC supporter. You’ve been waiting so long and finally that desired trophy is yours. Very well deservedYNWA”Another past Liverpool striker, Fernando Torres, wrote: “Huge congrats to everyone at LFC on winning the premierleague. Unbelievable squad, magnificent manager, great staff but above all my sincere congrats to every single LFC supporter. You’ve been waiting so long and finally that desired trophy is yours. Very well deservedYNWA”
Former Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina wrote: “CHAMPIONS!! Congratulations LFC!! Award more than deserved after an excellent season. 30 years later Today I feel more than proud of having belonged to this great club”Former Liverpool goalkeeper Pepe Reina wrote: “CHAMPIONS!! Congratulations LFC!! Award more than deserved after an excellent season. 30 years later Today I feel more than proud of having belonged to this great club”
Former Liverpool manager Roy Evans tweeted: “Well deserved congrats to jurgen. and the team a great finish we have Waited a long time for this a great team effort from the manager the team and lots of people behind the scenes and of course our brilliant fans. To you all YNWA”Former Liverpool manager Roy Evans tweeted: “Well deserved congrats to jurgen. and the team a great finish we have Waited a long time for this a great team effort from the manager the team and lots of people behind the scenes and of course our brilliant fans. To you all YNWA”
From the news wiresFrom the news wires
Liverpool and Manchester City have set the benchmark for the rest of the Premier League to follow, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard said after masterminding the 2-1 win over City that handed the Reds their first league title in 30 years on Thursday.Liverpool and Manchester City have set the benchmark for the rest of the Premier League to follow, Chelsea boss Frank Lampard said after masterminding the 2-1 win over City that handed the Reds their first league title in 30 years on Thursday.
Lampard, who won three Premier League titles as a player at Chelsea, congratulated Liverpool in a news conference and said it was up to other clubs to match them and Pep Guardiola’s City.Lampard, who won three Premier League titles as a player at Chelsea, congratulated Liverpool in a news conference and said it was up to other clubs to match them and Pep Guardiola’s City.
“I think for the last three seasons, themselves (Liverpool) and City have been out on their own pretty much, and that’s a lot of work,” he said.“I think for the last three seasons, themselves (Liverpool) and City have been out on their own pretty much, and that’s a lot of work,” he said.
“It’s a gap that we want to try and breach, we want to move up towards - they are two of the best teams in the world. Again, credit to Liverpool for what they’ve done,” Lampard added.“It’s a gap that we want to try and breach, we want to move up towards - they are two of the best teams in the world. Again, credit to Liverpool for what they’ve done,” Lampard added.
I’ve been thinking a lot about two people tonight, my colleagues Gregg Bakowski and Scott Murray. Two of the finer blokes and journalists you’ll ever meet, who had to put up with me luxuriating in Manchester United’s title wins of the 2000s, so it’s lovely to see Gregg’s name pop up in my inbox:I’ve been thinking a lot about two people tonight, my colleagues Gregg Bakowski and Scott Murray. Two of the finer blokes and journalists you’ll ever meet, who had to put up with me luxuriating in Manchester United’s title wins of the 2000s, so it’s lovely to see Gregg’s name pop up in my inbox:
A reminder that, though comments aren’t open on this blog, you can have your say below the line on Barney Ronay’s brilliant tribute to the champions.A reminder that, though comments aren’t open on this blog, you can have your say below the line on Barney Ronay’s brilliant tribute to the champions.
“Hey Rob,” says Tony Barr. “Moved to England from Glasgow in 1977 when my dad needed a job. Who else was I going to support but the new team of my boyhood hero? Things were easy and fun for many years, but Heysel and Hillsborough proved an uncomfortable background to my coming of age. “I don’t need to tell you about the intervening 30 years, but I will say that it’s not just the fact we’ve won the league, but the manner in which it’s been done that moves me to write. The character of the manager and the team and their perfect relationship with their home city is something you can’t manufacture. Not least of all the stories that make up the success. That Andy Robertson retweet never fails to get me filling up. “I’ve got plenty to do tomorrow but I’m not done reading and watching the highlights yet.” Yeah, that’s a very good point. The background of the players is interesting, and the clubs from which they were signed: Southampton, Roma, Schalke, Newcastle, Monaco, Charlton, Hull, Hoffenheim, Lille, Stoke, Leipzig. They became superstars together. I’m no Liverpool fan but you’d have to be a bit odd not to find them thoroughly admirable.“Hey Rob,” says Tony Barr. “Moved to England from Glasgow in 1977 when my dad needed a job. Who else was I going to support but the new team of my boyhood hero? Things were easy and fun for many years, but Heysel and Hillsborough proved an uncomfortable background to my coming of age. “I don’t need to tell you about the intervening 30 years, but I will say that it’s not just the fact we’ve won the league, but the manner in which it’s been done that moves me to write. The character of the manager and the team and their perfect relationship with their home city is something you can’t manufacture. Not least of all the stories that make up the success. That Andy Robertson retweet never fails to get me filling up. “I’ve got plenty to do tomorrow but I’m not done reading and watching the highlights yet.” Yeah, that’s a very good point. The background of the players is interesting, and the clubs from which they were signed: Southampton, Roma, Schalke, Newcastle, Monaco, Charlton, Hull, Hoffenheim, Lille, Stoke, Leipzig. They became superstars together. I’m no Liverpool fan but you’d have to be a bit odd not to find them thoroughly admirable.
“I used to live Liverpool’s victories from the late seventies through the eighties with my brother and it defined our childhood,” says Ian Copestake. “But life brings amazing changes and I am glad this comes in a different time because it is just as sweet and I have so many other people to share it with including the best Guardian MBMers and MBMees!”“I used to live Liverpool’s victories from the late seventies through the eighties with my brother and it defined our childhood,” says Ian Copestake. “But life brings amazing changes and I am glad this comes in a different time because it is just as sweet and I have so many other people to share it with including the best Guardian MBMers and MBMees!”
We should all meet up sometime. I’ll be on the Kerguelen Islands for the next few years if you’re passing that way.We should all meet up sometime. I’ll be on the Kerguelen Islands for the next few years if you’re passing that way.
In the 13 years up to May 2019, Liverpool won only one trophy, the Carling Cup or whatever it was called in 2011-12.In the 13 years up to May 2019, Liverpool won only one trophy, the Carling Cup or whatever it was called in 2011-12.
In the last 13 months, they’ve won the Champions League, the Super Club, the World Club Cup and now the Premier League.In the last 13 months, they’ve won the Champions League, the Super Club, the World Club Cup and now the Premier League.
“Hi Rob,” says Chris Kempshall. “So I was only six years old in 1990. I understood the nature/existence of football and having watched a Liverpool game previously and been amazed by John Barnes (my hero before I understood heroes) I was a fan, but I didn’t really understand. I watched the VHS of the 89/90 season to death but going through the school years as Liverpool withered away was not a great deal of fun.“Hi Rob,” says Chris Kempshall. “So I was only six years old in 1990. I understood the nature/existence of football and having watched a Liverpool game previously and been amazed by John Barnes (my hero before I understood heroes) I was a fan, but I didn’t really understand. I watched the VHS of the 89/90 season to death but going through the school years as Liverpool withered away was not a great deal of fun.
“Looking back on it tonight, it’s amazing just how long it all feels. We’ve had more complete collapses and rebuilds than title challenges. After the 2013/14 season I did genuinely wonder if it was ever going to happen. Tonight is, therefore, something I’ve basically waited my whole life for. Those 30 years did not fly by...”“Looking back on it tonight, it’s amazing just how long it all feels. We’ve had more complete collapses and rebuilds than title challenges. After the 2013/14 season I did genuinely wonder if it was ever going to happen. Tonight is, therefore, something I’ve basically waited my whole life for. Those 30 years did not fly by...”
InterludeInterlude
“Hi Rob,” says Peter Oh. “I don’t know anything about Rockstar by Dababy ft. Roddy Ricch but this is the tune that I’ll remember this day by.”“Hi Rob,” says Peter Oh. “I don’t know anything about Rockstar by Dababy ft. Roddy Ricch but this is the tune that I’ll remember this day by.”
Andy Hunter has a round-up of the reaction to Liverpool’s triumph, including Jurgen Klopp’s emotional interviewAndy Hunter has a round-up of the reaction to Liverpool’s triumph, including Jurgen Klopp’s emotional interview
“I was nineteen back in 1990: fresh-faced and carefree,” says Madge Stapleton. “Never did l think l’d have to wait thirty years to see success again. I have fifteen red shirts (and one yellow David James one) to remind me of the heartache and the near misses and the absolute despair at times. None of it matters now. Klopp is crying, Virg is dancing and I’m nineteen (19!) again.”“I was nineteen back in 1990: fresh-faced and carefree,” says Madge Stapleton. “Never did l think l’d have to wait thirty years to see success again. I have fifteen red shirts (and one yellow David James one) to remind me of the heartache and the near misses and the absolute despair at times. None of it matters now. Klopp is crying, Virg is dancing and I’m nineteen (19!) again.”
And Jack Charlton’s Ireland are in the World Cup quarter-finals!And Jack Charlton’s Ireland are in the World Cup quarter-finals!
Liverpool clinched the title because of Manchester City’s eighth league defeat of the season. That’s a scandal for a team of their quality, and Pep Guardiola surely won’t let it happen next season.Liverpool clinched the title because of Manchester City’s eighth league defeat of the season. That’s a scandal for a team of their quality, and Pep Guardiola surely won’t let it happen next season.
“It’s mad how few near misses we’ve had over 30 years,” says Niall Mullen. “1990-91, when we started like a train, is often forgotten, I guess because it happened before modern football. But between losing at home to Coventry in 1997 and Andrei Arshavin scoring four in 2009 we never really got close. 2014 was a bit of an aberration, like the time the beautiful girl goes out with you for a few months before coming to her senses. It’s almost an achievement to have been out of contention for so long.”“It’s mad how few near misses we’ve had over 30 years,” says Niall Mullen. “1990-91, when we started like a train, is often forgotten, I guess because it happened before modern football. But between losing at home to Coventry in 1997 and Andrei Arshavin scoring four in 2009 we never really got close. 2014 was a bit of an aberration, like the time the beautiful girl goes out with you for a few months before coming to her senses. It’s almost an achievement to have been out of contention for so long.”
There’s a bit of a police presence at Anfield, though it doesn’t sound like they are doing much. That particular horse has long since done one.There’s a bit of a police presence at Anfield, though it doesn’t sound like they are doing much. That particular horse has long since done one.
The evening’s burning question has finally been answeredThe evening’s burning question has finally been answered
“Got the crisps,” says Ian Copestake.“Got the crisps,” says Ian Copestake.
Here’s Barney Ronay on Liverpool’s title triumphHere’s Barney Ronay on Liverpool’s title triumph