Willie Stevenson, Key Figure in Liverpool’s 1960s Triumphs, Passes Away at 85

Willie Stevenson, a pivotal player in Liverpool’s ascent during the 1960s under legendary manager Bill Shankly, has passed away at the age of 85.

As a left half known for his ability to deliver defense-splitting passes, Stevenson made a total of 241 appearances for Liverpool after transferring from Rangers in 1962. He played a crucial role in the club’s achievements, including their initial title win in the 1963-64 season.

The Edinburgh native was part of the starting eleven that secured the FA Cup for Liverpool in the following season, marking the club’s first victory in that competition. Additionally, he contributed 41 league appearances as Liverpool clinched their second league title in just three seasons in 1966.

Stevenson was not only admired for his talent on the field but was also cherished as a dressing-room comic, winning the hearts of fans during a time when the squad included iconic players like Ron Yeats and Ian St John.

In a recent interview, Stevenson reflected on Liverpool’s historical title successes and expressed his enduring affection for the club. “I will always remember the sound the supporters made,” he shared. “It took some getting used to. There were 28,000 on The Kop back then. They were passionate fans – a ‘nice mad’ if you know what I mean. They really lived for football.

“We had a fantastic team – St John, Ian Callaghan, Roger Hunt, Geoff Strong, Peter Thompson. Thompson was the best winger I ever played with.

“Shankly was one of a kind. I remember being at Liverpool Town Hall when he made that famous remark about football’s significance in life. Only he could have expressed it so perfectly.

“He was a tremendous influence on me and all the players. Being part of that Liverpool team that won the league was a dream come true for me.

After losing his spot in Shankly’s lineup to Emlyn Hughes, Stevenson transferred to Stoke City in December 1967. His career also included stints with Tranmere Rovers, Vancouver Whitecaps, Limerick, and Macclesfield Town.