Masters Cup: Liverpool Glory Boy Still Fired Up

The Football Masters Cup may be viewed by some as a stage for the has-beens trying to relive the glory days. But put that thought to Liverpool legend Alan Kennedy and watch his eyes flare up with that competitive glint that saw him win numerous accolades with the Reds.

“When we go out and play, you can bet your life we want to win for Liverpool Football Club,'' said a fired-up Kennedy.

“We've got the Liverpool badge that we have to play for and these teams are all good, so we are under no illusions about the games – they will be tough.''

However, Kennedy did hint that his role could be limited to more of a non-playing captain.

“They say you let the ball do the work, but you've got to get the ball first and make sure you don't lose it, that's why I won't be starting the game tonight because I keep losing the ball! But I will put myself on at some point.''

The former left-back also voiced his pleasure at Liverpool's 3-0 demolition at PSV Eindhoven on Tuesday night. “I was really pleased with the way they played,'' he said.

“First of all, I thought Liverpool would be good enough to get a nil-nil or sneak a 1-0 win, I didn't expect them to go and play the way they did and credit should go to the manager for fielding a very attacking formation.''

And once again, it was Steven Gerrard who set the ball rolling against the Dutch.

“Steven Gerrard is the heartbeat of the team and the manager has looked after him very well,'' said Kennedy.

“He has been allowed a free role in the team and his contribution over the last two months has been significant.''

If you thought the night in Paris in 1981 where Kennedy's goal against Real Madrid gave Liverpool their third European Cup is his greatest, you are wrong.

“The win against AC Milan from three goals down is probably the best night of my life,'' he revealed. “It was Benitez's first year and I didn't think Liverpool had enough to go as far as they did.

“When we scored our second goal, I turned to my son and said, ‘They are going to win it'.''