The initial surge of optimism that had surrounded their dramatic takeover was followed by a loud and unmistakable crash back down to earth, as the reality of the task facing them became increasingly, and worryingly, clear. Undeterred, FSG set about their task with gusto. Admitting their ignorance regarding the mechanics of football they humbly swatted up about the beautiful game and avoided the terms ‘soccer’ and ‘franchise’ at all costs.
This approach paid dividends and led to wise decision making. As well as appointing the vastly experienced Damien Comolli as Director of Football and promoting astute businessman Ian Ayre, they crucially replaced the hapless Hodgson with club legend Kenny Dalglish. Consequently, when the Reds returned to Goodison Park at the start of this month the outcome was reversed, goals from Carroll and Suarez securing a two-goal victory. This reversal reflected the massive reversal of fortunes the club has experienced both on and off the field only 50 weeks into FSG’s ownership.
Off the pitch FSG have brought the club back from the brink of financial oblivion and stabilised our finances, wiping out the majority of the massive debt piled onto the club by the previous parasitic pair of American owners and drastically reducing the Reds’ interest payment on their debt, which had cost us roughly the monetary equivalent of a Luis Suarez (£25-30 million) a year.
This has had beneficial effects on the pitch as well as, after paying off the debt accrued under Hicks and Gillett, FSG have invested heavily in the squad, purchasing proven quality players of the calibre of Luis Suarez, Andy Carroll and Stewart Downing. They have concentrated on buying young, talented and preferably British players with Premier League experience. In spending big in this area they have revitalised and added fresh impetus to the squad short term and have increased the long-term potential and value of the squad.
FSG made perhaps their biggest decision so far during their reign in January when they finally sacked Roy Hodgson and brought in Kenny Dalglish, originally on a temporary basis and eventually permanently when they witnessed our sudden change of fortunes following his return to the Anfield dugout.
Hodgson was simply never going to succeed at the club and his departure became inevitable, with many fans complaining that the owners gave the former Fulham manager and current West Brom boss too much time to prove himself. These same supporters than voiced their displeasure at Henry and co. taking until the middle of May to appoint Kenny as permanent manager. Although with hindsight they probably should have acted more swiftly in both of those cases, considering they were (and still are) new to the sport it was perfectly reasonable that they took their time over making two important decisions.
Similarly some, frustrated with the delays experienced under Hicks and Gillett, have criticised FSG for failing to take significant steps forward regarding the stadium issue. However, the majority realise that leaving our home of 119 years is a massive decision and one that cannot be taken lightly. Upon takeover Henry and Werner appeared intent on remaining at Anfield because of its history and character and looked set to renovate it to expand the seating capacity and increase match day revenue.
They had previously employed this strategy with Boston Red Sox’s Fenway Park with huge success, selling out every ball game for the last five years. However, with difficulties arising from the housing that surrounds Anfield, it now appears more likely that FSG will decide to proceed with building a new stadium, as Ian Ayre searches for businesses to purchase the naming rights to any new ground. Although no final decision has been made and the Americans will continue co-operate with the local council and consider all options, it appears we may have to say goodbye to our historic and storied home sooner or later.
For bringing in club legend Kenny Dalglish as manager, providing financial security and investing heavily in the playing squad FSG's first year as owners will be remembered fondly. Most importantly though, following the ousting of Hicks and Gillett and arrival of Henry and Werner, unity has returned to the club. No longer is a civil war erupting in the background while the team struggles on the pitch. Finally, the owners, manager, players and supporters are all singing from the same proverbial hymn sheet, adhering to the Liverpool Way and working as hard as possible to return the Reds to where they belong; in the Champions League and competing for the title.
What a difference a year makes.
A year is a long time in football.
The clichés are countless but, thankfully, FSG have resisted the temptation to recite empty platitudes and have instead concentrated on delivering results both on and off the field.
Long may the good times roll!
YNWA
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