An Ode to the King of the Kop, Sir Kenny Dalglish

On his 70th birthday, we pay tribute to the King of the Kop, Sir Kenny Dalglish

Revered in both his home of Glasgow and in Liverpool, Kenny Dalglish is one of the best footballers to play in England. Winning three European cups and six league titles with the Reds, he's one of the most decorated players in history.

He also gave the Premier League title to Jordan Henderson to end 30 years of hurt.

He managed the Reds to three league titles in his first stint as manager of the Reds and is one of Liverpool's most decorated players, and a legendary manager to boot. However, it's not his achievements as a player or a manager that makes him such an integral part of the Reds history.

The horrific events of April 15 1989 at Hillsborough have left an immovable mark on this club's history. 96 men, women, and children went to Sheffield and never came home.

Sir Kenny went to funerals, he went to memorial services and became a symbol for Liverpool fans in the club's darkest times.

For a man who was not born in the city, who was connected through sport to Liverpool to do so much was simply incredible. The calls for his knighthood rang loud and clear for decades, and finally, in 2018, it became a reality.

For his services to football, as well as the country, it's the least he deserves.

More than the stand, his legacy has permeated throughout the club even in his absence from the dressing room. Listen to those within the club speak about him. Whether it's the interview with Jurgen Klopp after the title was won, the esteem in which he's held by Andy Robertson, Dalglish's influence on this club will be immortal.

So here at Anfield Central, we say Happy Birthday, and long live the king.