The History of Liverpool's Number 7

The history of Liverpool's number 7 shirt is a storied and prestigious one, filled with iconic players who have left an indelible mark on the club's history. Over the years, the number 7 shirt has been worn by several legendary figures, each adding their unique contributions to Liverpool's success.

The tradition of assigning numbers to specific positions began in the early 20th century, and the number 7 shirt at Liverpool gained prominence in the 1970s. One of the first players to don the famous jersey was Kevin Keegan. Keegan joined Liverpool in 1971 and became an instant success. He played a vital role in the club's dominance, winning multiple league titles, UEFA Cups, and the club's first-ever European Cup in 1977. Keegan's skill, work rate, and leadership made him an adored figure among the Liverpool faithful.

Following Keegan's departure in 1977, the number 7 shirt was passed on to another Liverpool legend, Kenny Dalglish. Dalglish's arrival from Celtic marked the beginning of a remarkable era for Liverpool. He became one of the greatest players in the club's history, showcasing his exceptional skill, vision, and goal-scoring ability. Dalglish's time at Liverpool coincided with the team's dominance domestically and in Europe, winning numerous league titles, FA Cups, and European trophies. He solidified his status as an Anfield icon, and the number 7 shirt became synonymous with his name.

After Dalglish, the number 7 shirt was worn by a succession of talented players. Notably, Peter Beardsley, Steve McManaman, and Harry Kewell all donned the prestigious number. These players made their own significant contributions to Liverpool's success, with Beardsley and McManaman playing key roles in league titles and cup triumphs during their respective spells at the club.

In recent years, the number 7 shirt has been worn by James Milner. Milner joined Liverpool in 2015 and quickly became a dependable and versatile player in the squad. Although primarily a midfielder, Milner's work ethic, professionalism, and leadership qualities have made him an invaluable asset for the team. He has been a part of Liverpool's Champions League victory in 2019 and their Premier League triumph in 2020, contributing to the club's recent success.

Now, following Milner's departure from the club, the number has been handed over to Luiz Diaz who joined from Porto in January of 2022. Despite some recurring knee issues, Jurgen Klopp and the rest of his staff see Diaz as one of their main men with his frightening speed and his seemingly never ending catalogue of skills.

The history of Liverpool's number 7 shirt reflects the legacy and tradition associated with it. From the likes of Keegan and Dalglish, who symbolise an era of dominance, to the contributions of Beardsley, McManaman, and Milner, each player has carried the weight of the number with distinction. The shirt represents not only individual brilliance but also a commitment to the club's ethos and success. As Liverpool's history continues to unfold, the number 7 shirt will undoubtedly be cherished and sought after by future stars who aim to leave their mark on the storied club.