50 Men Who Made LFC: John McKenna
A footballing pioneer and key activist in the club's successful assimilation into the Football League, 'Honest' John McKenna played a significant role in Liverpool's early history.
A close aide of John Houlding, he initially shared secretarial and managerial duties with William Barclay but was very much the more influential partner in their relationship.
Entrusted with the task of assembling Liverpool’s first ever team, he organised what was to be an inspirational recruitment drive north of the border.
His now famous ‘Team of Macs’ won the Lancashire League title in the club’s inaugural season, so the ambitious and forward-thinking Ulsterman submitted an application to join the Football League.
Further success followed as the Second Division title was secured but McKenna realised the need for a full-time manager to survive in the top flight and was instrumental in the appointment of Tom Watson.
As a senior director he also played an important role in overseeing all transfers and authorising ground improvements, such as the construction of the Spion Kop.
Click through our 50 Men Who Made LFC countdown below