Liverpool’s Forgotten Icons: The Michael Owen Debate | OneFootball

The Rise and Fall of Liverpool Icons: Michael Owen and the Legacy Debate

Liverpool Football Club has seen a parade of legendary players don its famous red shirt, leaving indelible marks on the club’s storied history. Among them, Michael Owen and Steve McManaman often find themselves at the heart of a divisive legacy discussion. In the latest Daily Red Podcast, Dave Hendrick explored this polarising topic, shedding light on the nuanced relationship between these players, the club, and its fanbase.

Michael Owen: England’s Hero, Liverpool’s Outcast

In the podcast, Hendrick described Michael Owen as “a once-in-a-generation type of talent,” whose brilliance electrified Anfield during his prime years. From his teenage exploits to his Ballon d’Or win in 2001, Owen’s achievements are monumental. Yet, Hendrick lamented how Owen is “rarely celebrated as one of Liverpool’s best,” despite scoring 158 goals in 297 games for the club.

“Michael Owen was England’s Michael Owen, not Liverpool’s Michael Owen,” Hendrick remarked, highlighting how his international reputation overshadowed his connection with Liverpool fans. This, coupled with his departure to Real Madrid in 2004 and subsequent stint with Manchester United, led to a strained relationship with the Kop faithful.

Hendrick added, “He gave us far more than he ever gave United,” urging fans to reconsider their harsh judgement. “It’s been 20 years since he left. We’ve won two European Cups and a league title since. It’s time to forgive.”

Steve McManaman: A Tale of Contrasts

Unlike Owen, Steve McManaman carved out a legacy at Real Madrid, winning two Champions League titles and earning begrudging respect from Liverpool fans over time. However, Hendrick noted, “McManaman doesn’t get the same stick Owen does, but he’s still not welcome back into the cool kids’ club.”

McManaman’s decision to run down his contract and leave on a free transfer to Madrid in 1999 is a sore point for many fans. Yet, Hendrick believes that both McManaman and Owen should be recognised as part of Liverpool’s golden alumni. “They should be put on a pedestal alongside the likes of Gerrard and Fowler,” he argued.

The Grass Isn’t Always Greener

Reflecting on players who left Liverpool for greener pastures, Hendrick emphasised the often-unfulfilled promises awaiting them. “Look at Philippe Coutinho,” he said. “He pushed his way out to Barcelona, and while he won trophies, he never thrived.” Even Raheem Sterling, who excelled at Manchester City, has struggled since moving to Chelsea and Arsenal. “The grass isn’t greener when you leave Liverpool,” Hendrick warned.

Photo: IMAGO

Michael Owen, however, stands out as a unique case. “He was Mbappé before Mbappé,” Hendrick stated, referencing Owen’s dazzling performances as a teenager, including his famous World Cup goal against Argentina. Yet, despite his historic accomplishments, Owen’s legacy remains overshadowed by his departure and subsequent career choices.

Conclusion

The Daily Red Podcast offers a compelling reminder of how the narratives surrounding former players are often shaped by fan sentiment and hindsight. Both Michael Owen and Steve McManaman were phenomenal talents who contributed significantly to Liverpool’s history. As Hendrick aptly concluded, “It’s time to forgive. They were two of our best, and they should be celebrated, not shunned.”

For Liverpool fans, the challenge lies in reconciling past grievances with the undeniable contributions of these iconic players. After all, football is as much about celebrating its heroes as it is about learning from its history.