Liverpool fans expressed their anger about the way in which the club has been run by burning American flags outside Anfield following the departure of manager Rafael Benitez from his post on Thursday.
Around 500 Reds fans were involved in the protest, which began outside the Kop at around 18:00 GMT and was organized largely through social networking websites.
Protestors were keen to stress that the demonstration was in no way an attempt to persuade the owners to retain Benitez as manager but rather against an ownership regime which has seen debt at the club spiral.
"This is another example of how this club has become the biggest farce in town. In a sense, Benitez is just collateral damage. When you look at Liverpool in a general manner, who will want to take the club on?" Paul Rice, of the supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly, said, according to The Daily Telegraph.
One banner at the protest read: "Thanks Rafa. Purslow $$ Yanks Get Out Now."
Supporters are also believed to be concerned about the role of chairman Martin Broughton in the club's day-to-day running.
Broughton, also chairman of British Airways, has always stressed that his role at the club was non-executive and he was not involved in running the affairs of the club.
Rather his role was created to help facilitate more investment in the club, along with managing director Christian Purslow.
But Purslow is still in post a year on from being appointed, whilst Broughton's name was one of those which appeared on the statement confirming the departure of Benitez.
Around 500 Reds fans were involved in the protest, which began outside the Kop at around 18:00 GMT and was organized largely through social networking websites.
Protestors were keen to stress that the demonstration was in no way an attempt to persuade the owners to retain Benitez as manager but rather against an ownership regime which has seen debt at the club spiral.
"This is another example of how this club has become the biggest farce in town. In a sense, Benitez is just collateral damage. When you look at Liverpool in a general manner, who will want to take the club on?" Paul Rice, of the supporters’ group Spirit of Shankly, said, according to The Daily Telegraph.
One banner at the protest read: "Thanks Rafa. Purslow $$ Yanks Get Out Now."
Supporters are also believed to be concerned about the role of chairman Martin Broughton in the club's day-to-day running.
Broughton, also chairman of British Airways, has always stressed that his role at the club was non-executive and he was not involved in running the affairs of the club.
Rather his role was created to help facilitate more investment in the club, along with managing director Christian Purslow.
But Purslow is still in post a year on from being appointed, whilst Broughton's name was one of those which appeared on the statement confirming the departure of Benitez.
1 comment:
wow. First of, I am a massive LFC supporter. YNWA tattoo and all....but i am also an American.
I totally get the symbolism and it sure is powerful, but at the same time, there are many other options that could be used to make a point. I hate the current owners just as much as the next person, but the flag...
I know hundreds of supporters here in the states and although, I am not the most patriotic American citizen...i dont agree this is the best way to protest.
no worries, i still love you all. and we all are in this terrible situation together. the country is not the problem...the owners are.
Post a Comment