Preston North End and Liverpool FC’s forthcoming pre-season friendly will be played for a special ‘Shankly Shield’ in honour of the legend of both clubs.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the birth of the former PNE defender and Reds’ manager, and to commemorate the occasion the two clubs have agreed that the friendly fixture on Saturday 13th July will see the winner presented with the specially-designed Shankly Shield.
Bill Shankly made 340 league and cup appearances for the Lilywhites and a further 84 during the Second World War. He reached the FA Cup Final with the Club in 1937 and lifted the trophy at Wembley a year later when the team defeated Huddersfield Town. He was also part of the side that won the War Cup in 1941 with a replay victory over Arsenal.
He was appointed Liverpool manager in 1959 and held the position for 15 years, taking charge of over 750 games and winning the second division in 1962 and the first division three times in 1964, 1966 and 1973. He also won two FA Cups, four charity shields and the UEFA Cup in 1973 - a year that he was awarded manager of the year.
He sadly passed away in 1981 but will be remembered by both sets of fans when the two teams will meet in the 3pm kick-off.
Presenting the trophy after the match will be Bill Shankly’s granddaughter, Karen Gill. She said: “I am honoured to be asked to attend the match between Preston North End and Liverpool to present the winning team with this special shield. Both clubs were extremely close to my granddad’s heart and I think this is a very appropriate way to mark his 100th birthday.”
Simon Grayson, the Preston North End manager, said: “When you walk into Deepdale and see the faces in the stand you can’t help feel the history and as you walk out of the tunnel the Bill Shankly Kop faces you and I am delighted we can honour his name with this fixture and give it that extra edge by playing for the Shankly Shield.”
Brendan Rodgers, Liverpool FC manager, added: “The name Bill Shankly is synonymous with Liverpool Football Club and his spirit is always with us at Anfield. Our match at Preston North End is truly fitting to mark the 100th anniversary of the great man.”
Liverpool FC is also celebrating the anniversary with a special bike ride where fans can cycle with LFC Legend Robbie Fowler from Glasgow to Liverpool. Follow this link for more information: