Episode 10
Bill Shankly is invited to Rome to watch Liverpool in the European Cup final, the title he never won as manager, to his regret.
By David Peace.
One hundred years ago this September, in a small Scottish mining village in East Ayrshire, Bill Shankly was born. Shankly's passion was football. It was his job and it was his life, both as a player and then as a manager. He transformed the fortunes of Liverpool Football Club, turning the team into a world class side, and he has been immortalised as a hero. From the very beginning, he was as committed to the fans as they were to him.
Acclaimed novelist David Peace describes Shankly as "not just a great football manager. Bill Shankly was one of the greatest men who ever lived". David Peace's astonishing book takes us into Bill Shankly's home and his heart, not just his second home, Anfield. A fragile side to Bill is revealed.
In retirement, Bill has felt isolated from the club that was so central to his life. Now they invite him as part of the official party to watch the team in the European Cup final in Rome. As a manager, it was the title that eluded him, and now he hopes to see them bring it home.
Read by Gary Lewis
Abridged by Robin Brooks
Producer: Allegra McIlroy.
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Credits
| Role | Contributor |
|---|---|
| Reader | Gary Lewis |
| Producer | Allegra McIlroy |
| Abridger | Robin Brooks |
| Author | David Peace |
Broadcast
- Fri 23 Aug 2013 22:45Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Radio 4
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