Roger Hunt - Liverpool FC Legend

by Steve Goodwin

Roger Hunt was born in 1938 and became one of the most legendary footballers ever to play for Liverpool. Hunt played for Stockton Heath, Bury and Devizes Town, before signing for Liverpool in 1958 and he went on to make 492 appearances and score 286 goals for Liverpool.

Hunt was signed by Liverpool manager Phil Taylor when they were mid-table second division side, but he still managed to impress. When Bill Shankly became manager, Roger Hunt survived a large player exodus and became instrumental in the Liverpool side that returned to winning ways and top division football.

After narrowly missing out on promotion for several consecutive seasons, Roger Hunt played a major role in helping Liverpool win promotion during the 1961-62 season, he played in 41 of the 42 league games and scored 41 goals that season, as Liverpool won the second division title.

Hunt formed a formidable strike partnership with Ian St John as Liverpool returned to the first division, and he went on to become Liverpool's top goal scorer for eight seasons running, this included Liverpool's title winning season of 1963-64 and in 1965-66. Hunt also scored the opening goal as Liverpool won the FA Cup in 1965 against Leeds United.

Roger Hunt was not only renowned for his goal scoring exploits, but also his team play and work ethic, which were second to none. Hunt became Liverpool's all time leading goal scorer, a record that was eventually overtaken by Ian Rush, but Hunt remains the highest scorer of league goals for Liverpool even today.

Roger Hunt also had a distinguished international football career for England, and was part of the World Cup winning team in 1966, he played in all of England's six games in the tournament and scored three goals, as England went on to win the trophy for the first and only time; he is often referred to as "Sir" Roger Hunt by the Liverpool fans in recognition of a knighthood they believe he deserved.

In 1969 and aging Roger Hunt was allowed to leave Liverpool as Bill Shankly began to re-build his team, and Hunt joined Bolton Wanderers. Many fans believe if it wasn't for Hunts great ability, Liverpool would never have achieved the success they have, which makes him a true Liverpool legend.

About the Author

Steve Goodwin is a writer for Premier Football Souvenirs, a UK based internet company specialising in the retail of Premier League Football (Soccer) merchandise, souvenirs and football gifts that are available from the football shop to ship worldwide.