Phil Thompson

A lifelong Liverpool supporter, Thompson stood on The Kop as a boy. His dream became reality when he signed as a professional for Liverpool on 22 January 1971, just a day after his 17th birthday. He made his first-team debut the following year against rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.

In 1973, Liverpool secured a remarkable double, winning both the League championship and UEFA Cup. Thompson played a pivotal, though limited, role in both triumphs, earning medals in both competitions. By the next season, his performances saw him displace Larry Lloyd from the starting line-up, with Tommy Smith shifting to full back. Thompson formed a formidable defensive partnership with club captain Emlyn Hughes.

In the 1974 FA Cup final, Thompson marked Malcolm Macdonald out of the game as Liverpool secured a 3-0 victory over Newcastle United. This was followed by another League and UEFA Cup double in 1976, further cementing his legacy. Although he missed Liverpool’s most successful season in 1977 due to injury, he still played enough games to earn a medal as Liverpool retained the league title. His injury meant he couldn’t participate in Liverpool’s historic treble charge, but he returned the following season to play in the European Cup final victory against FC Bruges in 1978.

In 1979, Thompson was appointed captain after Emlyn Hughes left the club for Wolves. He led the team to another League title triumph in 1980 and continued to play regularly for both Liverpool and England, including in the squad that qualified for the 1980 European Championships. Although the tournament was disappointing for England, Thompson’s leadership was evident throughout.

Thompson’s proudest moment as Liverpool captain came in 1981 when he lifted the European Cup after a 1-0 victory over Real Madrid in Paris, the club’s third triumph in the competition. He also received the League Cup after a replay win against West Ham United, the first of four consecutive League Cup successes for Liverpool.

However, Thompson’s role began to diminish from 1984, with Alan Hansen becoming his regular central defensive partner, later joined by Mark Lawrenson. Despite Liverpool winning the League, League Cup, and European Cup in 1984, Thompson did not qualify for medals in these triumphs.

Today, Phil Thompson is a highly regarded football analyst on Sky Sports’ Soccer Saturday programme and a sought-after speaker on the after-dinner speaking circuit, sharing fascinating stories from his decorated football career.