Looking back at the Liverpool career of Steve McManaman with special guest Robbie Fowler, and Ian Ryan hosting John Gibbons, Gareth Roberts, Andy Heaton and Ian Salmon…
From LFCHistory.net: “Steve McManaman grew up as an Everton supporter, but joined Liverpool at 14 years of age. Ten days after his first England U21 international, the 18-year-old got his first taste of first-team action when he came on against Sheffield United at Anfield on 15 December 1990.
“He made a couple more substitute appearances before making the starting lineup in the opening game of the 1991-92 season. McManaman had a sensational campaign, playing 51 games and scoring 10 goals willing to run with the ball at length on the right wing armed with an unbelievable stamina.
“Injuries curtailed McManaman’s progress in the next couple of seasons as Graeme Souness’s disastrous spell as manager came to an end. The 1993-94 season only produced two goals for McManaman and he was criticised for his goalscoring ability. When Roy Evans took over in 1994, McManaman was given a free role and no longer being tied to the wings inspired him to greater heights. He continued his good form into 1995-96.
“In 1996-97…he did well enough to be on the five-man shortlist for the Player of the Year. In 1997-98 captain John Barnes left Liverpool and McManaman, now the most experienced player in the side, became vice-captain to Paul Ince. He scored 12 goals that season.
“McManaman’s ninth and last season at Liverpool was not a pleasant one. His contract had been allowed to run into its last year sparking fears of a Bosman exit… In January 1999, McManaman announced he would be leaving for European champions Real Madrid in the summer.”
