'Why I'm a Red through and through'
Acclaimed actress Sue Johnston has explained the roots of her life-long love for Liverpool and why the family feeling generated by the club and its supporters keeps her coming back to Anfield.
The 70-year-old is known throughout the United Kingdom for her roles in popular shows such as 'The Royle Family', 'Brookside', 'Waking the Dead' and, most recently, 'Coronation Street'.
A passionate Red, Johnston was in attendance to watch her team climb to second in the Barclays Premier League by beating West Ham United 4-1 on Saturday.
Before the action got underway in front of the Kop, she sat down with Liverpoolfc.com to reveal more about her affiliation with LFC and give her verdict on the progress made under Brendan Rodgers.
How long have you been making the journey to Anfield?
I first came when I was a very tiny little girl, many years ago when my dad brought me. But he also took me to watch St Helens rugby league. As a teenager, I went to rugby league. I came back in the mid-'60s to Liverpool when I starting living in London; I used to go and watch them in London. I've carried on ever since.
What is so special about this football club for you?
I think it's the family connection. I was sort of born into it and had no choice; I've done the same with my son. It's a family, that's what I love about it - the family and the continuation of it. Also, I love the spirit of the club. I feel at home here, and through good times and bad. We were magnificent, of course, and I still think we're magnificent but we've had a few ups and downs since the Champions League in Istanbul. But you don't change allegiance, do you? You're a Red through and through - and that's what I am. I'm proud of it.
What have you made of Liverpool under Brendan Rodgers?
I think he's doing a great job. I love the fact that he's brought kids through and is bringing the youngsters. I love that because that's the future, you have to have those kids coming through. It's great that they can come in and learn and be influenced by people like Steven Gerrard. It's an apprenticeship. It has proved to be good for us, those kids are coming good.