Introducing LFC TV's latest signing

In time for the start of next season, Mark will be the new face of the club's in-house channel, joining current hosts Claire Rourke and Matt Critchley in keeping you right up to speed with goings on at Liverpool Football Club.

He'll help to bring Kopites closer to the action than ever before, through Melwood player interviews, news bulletins and by hosting regular, live phone-in shows.

Mark will also be a key figure on matchdays when the 2013-14 campaign gets underway in August.

A passionate Red, he grew up in the north west of England, but has spent most of his working life in Scotland.

Mark started out off-air for BBC TV and radio, before a lengthy spell on-air in commercial radio, reporting and presenting.

Over the last couple of years he has been with Sky Sports and Sky Sports News - and has been fortunate enough to have covered a host of massive sporting events, including UEFA Cup finals, The Open and Wimbledon.

Liverpoolfc.com caught up with him recently, to learn a bit more about his passion for the club - and we've transcribed what Mark had to say below.

How long have you supported Liverpool?

I've been a Red all my life, although I was probably aged about 11 or 12 when I convinced my dad, who wasn't really a football fan, to take me to Anfield. I seem to remember one of my first games being a 3-2 win over QPR in December 1993 - my old man decided it'd be good to beat the rush and nip off early, the only problem being there were still about 10 minutes to go and we missed Jan Molby scoring the winner from the spot. I never leave games early now, no matter what the score!

Can you remember what it was that first attracted you to following Liverpool?

Family allegiance - both my parents were from Merseyside, although not big football fans, and my grandad was a Red, so I think I followed his lead.

What has been your best moment as a supporter down the years?

It is easy to say Istanbul in 2005, but I think I'll opt for the semi in the same year against Chelsea. In all my years watching and covering football I've never heard anything quite like the noise inside Anfield that night. I'm convinced the crowd played a part in Eidur Gudjohnsen's miss in added time. I have to admit I was one of those who stayed behind to dance around the Shankly statue afterwards. We were singing an ode to Mr Mourinho, but I don't think I can put the lyrics here...

Has there been a particular player that you've loved more than the rest?

I was a big fan of wide players or those who could beat a man, so John Barnes and Steve McManaman were my favourites growing up, but I'm a sucker for the underdog or the guys who've had a tough time. I'm delighted to see Lucas do so well these days after having a tough start at the club and I'm encouraged every time Jordan Henderson or Stewart Downing do well. Going back a few years, I really felt for Rob Jones when his career was cut short - he was a really talented lad.

How excited are you about taking up the role as LFC TV's new presenter?

It is a dream move for me. Like any kid growing up, you dream of playing for the team you support. I soon realised that a lack of talent was going to curtail my on-field ambitions, so this is the next best thing.

What sort of challenges do you think you'll face on a day-to-day basis?

I think I'll need to keep my emotions in check during games - I seem to remember bruising my hand punching a wall in frustration when Eric Cantona scored the winner in the 1996 FA Cup final. I don't think I'll get away with that kind of thing anymore...

Is there a player or person who you are most looking forward to meeting as part of your new role?

I'm looking forward to meeting the manager, Brendan Rodgers. I've been impressed with his approach so far and I am keen to hear his ideas first-hand.