The resignation letter of legendary Liverpool FC manager, Bill Shankly, has been revealed. Shankly resigned and retired from football coaching in 1974, after spending 15 years with the Anfield club.
The manager had helped Liverpool FC to the second division title in 1962, earning them promotion to the First Division. The Scot, who is considered to be one of the greatest-managers in English football, oversaw one of the most successful period in the club’s history. He also set-up the base for their complete domination in the the 1970’s and 80’s under his then assistant manager, Bob Paisley, who was handed over the reigns upon his departure.
Liverpool FC won 3 League Titles, 2 FA Cups and a UEFA Cup under Shankly
Shankly had spent almost his entire career playing for Preston North End, for whom he played as a right-back. Under Shankly, the Anfield club won three First Division titles, along with two FA Cups and the UEFA cup. The letter dated 18th June 1974, was revealed earlier by former Liverpool FC striker John Aldridge on Twitter. The letter reads:
‘I would like to retire as Manager of Liverpool Football Club as soon as possible and would be grateful if you would take the necessary steps for my pensions to commence. Your’s faithfully, W. Shankly.’
Shankly had sent the letter to then Liverpool FC chairman John Smith, who upon much deliberation, granted the request of the Scot, and a press conference was arranged for the farewell of their legendary manager. During the farewell, Smith said:
‘It is with great regret that I as chairman of Liverpool Football Club have to inform you that Mr Shankly has intimated that he wishes to retire from active participation in league football. And the board has with extreme reluctance accepted his decision. .
‘I would like to at this stage place on record the board’s great appreciation of Mr Shankly’s magnificent achievements over the period of his managership.’
Shankly was succeeded by Paisley, who oversaw undoubtedly the most illustrious years of Liverpool FC, as they won six League Titles, three European Cups, three League Cups, one UEFA Cup, one UEFA Super Cup along with six Community Shields.
Here is the Tweet from former Liverpool FC striker John Aldridge:
That never came out right!This is shanks last letter before his resignation was accepted!from the Shankly Hotel. pic.twitter.com/FTSLiTQHWO
a John Aldridge (@Realaldo474) July 26, 2015