3. The community
Fate can be a cruel force in football, just ask Arsene Wenger about his 1,000th game in charge of Arsenal. But, if a side can harness the extra expectation and attention from both supporters and the media that comes from big anniversaries or events, it can give players extra belief and drive. That’s exactly what has happened to Liverpool with the 25th anniversary of the Hillsborough disaster.
Brendan Rodgers revealed how he used a speech by Hillsborough campaigner Margaret Aspinall to inspire his players in the recent victory over Norwich: “She talked about stress and how it can prove difficult for you but can also offer great determination to fight. Those were the words that we gave the players before the game. This is really one club at this moment and we will all fight to achieve the ultimate goal.”
During Liverpool’s incredible run of 11 straight victories there has been a growing feeling that this is destined to be their year. Liverpool is one of the clubs in the Premier League with the closest ties to their local community and with the revelations over the Hillsborough disaster finally emerging last season there is a sense that the shadow of the disaster is finally being lifted from the club and the city. Liverpool fans and players have found a new sense of optimism and expectation, and it’s this spirit that looks like it could lead them to the title.