Kenny Dalglish: Why I signed John Barnes
As we look back to the day John Barnes signed for Liverpool 29 years ago, it’s worth remembering these prophetic words from manager Kenny Dalglish on what his new capture could bring to this team.
With Ian Rush having departed for a new life in Italy with Juventus, a new Anfield dynasty was being put in place.
Dalglish had already signed John Aldridge to get the goals but he needed a supply line. Peter Beardsley was on the radar but first, the canny Scot went to Watford to capture a promising winger.
Barnes, of course, went on to become the darling of the Kop as he graced the attack and gave it a brand new dimension.
Quite rightly, the Jamaican-born flyer is regarded by many people as one of the greatest players to ever put on a red shirt.
Free video: 10 of the best Barnes goals
In the book ‘The Liverpool Year’, which was Dalglish’s very own diary of the 1987-88 season, the Scot reflected on the capture of the England star.
In his notes for Tuesday June 9, 1987, he wrote: “I returned from a family holiday in Spain last Saturday. Our chief executive Peter Robinson had phoned me there with the news that John Barnes wants to join us.
“Some people seem surprised that a player of such obvious individual skill as John should come to a club like Liverpool whose success has been based on teamwork, but I think he will complement us and vice versa.
“I have admired him for a long time. We know he has the speed and ability to go past people and not only is he one of the best, if not the best crosser of a ball in British football, he will contribute a great deal to the team effort.
“He is never shy of going back to help out in defensive situations and, of course, at set pieces he can be a menace to the opposition.
“John had always impressed us as an opponent, playing for Watford; watching him, we have always enjoyed and admired his performances.
“There is no doubt in my mind that he has the attributes to improve our team; and in turn, he can learn things here that will benefit him.”