Introducing Wolves Blog

Lee: Thomas, thanks for joining us here at The Edit. Let’s start by getting an introduction to you and Wolves Blog. 

Thomas: I’ve been a Wolves supporter for about 30 years and a season ticket holder for most of that time. I started Wolves Blog in 2008 as I’m a keen writer and nobody else seemed to be covering the club with a fan-made editorial product. Fast forward to 2024 and the blog is still going strong. 

For anyone that hasn’t come across Wolves Blog, it’s simply a fan’s perspective on the events unfolding at the club. Over the years we have attracted a community of supporters who all join in via the comment section to offer a diverse range of views and opinions. It ultimately gives fans a platform to come together and share their voice. 

Lee: So for someone who hasn’t perhaps read your content, what should they expect? 

Thomas: Frank, and probably somewhat biased opinions on anything and everything concerning Wolverhampton Wanderers. We tend to focus a lot of the content, as you would expect, on pre-match previews and then post-match analysis. 

Lee: And where can we find your blog?

Thomas: By visiting wolvesblog.com or Googling ‘Wolves Blog’.

Footballing Favourites

Lee: My favourite part of our fan interview series is to get to know more about the team you support and your favourite player. We know you’re a Wolves fan, but who is your favourite player? 

Thomas: I would probably say Ruben Neves because in those early years at the club he made it feel like anything was possible. We climbed into the Premier League and even made it into a European quarter final – something I didn’t think I’d experience in my lifetime.

The combination of world class goals, sublime passing and his obvious desire to do his very best for Wolves every time he stepped onto the pitch. A class act.

And then that goal against Derby. We knew we were promoted when that volley dropped out of the sky. 

We knew we were promoted when that volley dropped out of the sky. 

Lee: And what about within the current squad? 

Thomas: I’ll go with Pedro Neto. At his best I struggle to think of a more electrifying winger. We’ll do well to hold onto him.

Footballing Memories

Lee: Let’s go on a journey back through all those years of supporting Wolves. What would be your favourite memory? 

Thomas: Probably promotion to the Premier League in 2003 via the play-off final at the Millenium Stadium. I didn’t think we’d ever make it after so many near misses. It was a perfect day. You don’t often win a final 3-0.

Lee: What is your earliest footballing memory?

Thomas: I think the first game my dad ever took me to was just before Molineux was redeveloped and we took a crate in with us to stand on so I could see over the adults!

The 2024/45 Season

Lee: At the time of writing, the new season is fast approaching. What are your expectations for Wolves this season? 

Thomas: It’s always so tough to predict the Premier League, but I would hope we could finish mid-table and maybe progress well in one of the cups. Sadly, staying up will always be the first priority.

Lee: Which Wolves player do you think we should keep our eye on? 

Thomas: Matheus Cunha. He was sensational at times last season and with some more reinforcements around him this season I think he could do something special.

He was sensational at times last season and with some more reinforcements around him this season I think he could do something special.

Lee: How would you rate Wolves’ transfer activity so far this summer?

Thomas: Impressive. They’ve got the centre forward they desperately needed in Jørgen Strand Larsen and two highly rated young wide players in Pedro Lima and Rodrigo Gomes. We’ve balanced the books by selling skipper Max Kilman to West Ham, but hopefully he can be replaced and we can retain all of our other key players.

Lee: And lastly, which non-Wolves player do you see being the surprise package this season? 

Thomas: I’m looking forward to seeing what Archie Gray can do for Tottenham. He could develop into the exact type of player England need in their midfield. And I think Spurs could surprise people again if they get the recruitment right to support Ange. 

The Terrace Apparel

Lee: Before we let you go, I’d love to get your feedback on the products on offer at The Terrace Apparel. 

Thomas: I like the idea – premium quality and subtle designs. Right up my street. Ruben Neves is my obvious favourite design, but some of the wrestling designs are catching my eye too. I was a big Hitman fan growing up. 

You can read Thomas’ review of the Ruben Neves design here.

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In this latest edition of The Edit, we’ll embark on a journey through time, exploring and counting down the 10 oldest football stadiums in the UK, each with its own unique story to tell.

A journey through time

1. Anfield, Liverpool (1884)

First on our list is Anfield, one of the most iconic venues in English football. Unknown to some is that it used to be the home of Everton between 1884 and 1891 before they later moved to Goodison Park. Since then it has been the home of Liverpool after their formation in 1982. Anfield has seen some of the greatest players to ever play the game, with the Spion Kop arguably serving up one of the best atmospheres in the football league. What a great place to start on our journey through time! 

2. Turf Moor, Burnley (1883)

Next on our list is Turf Moor, which has been the home to Burnley Football Club since 1883. Sport has been played at the Turf Moor site since 1843, when Burnley Cricket Club made the area their home. In 1883, they invited Burnley FC to use a pitch adjacent to the cricket field, and in 1985 the first grandstand was built. In 1986, Turf Moor became the first football ground to be visited by a member of the Royal Family, when Prince Albert Victor attended a friendly against Bolton Wanderers. 

3. Ewood Park, Blackburn (1882)

Football has been played on the site of Ewood Park since at least 1881. Blackburn Rovers, founding members of the Football League, played four games there, including a friendly against Sheffield Wednesday. In 1882, Ewood Park was opened and staged football, athletics, and greyhound racing before Rovers moved back in 1890. Blackburn have played their home games there ever since, including the 1994/95 season when they won the Premier League. 

4. Deepdale, Preston (1878)

Some claim that Deepdale is the oldest active stadium in the Football League. It has been home to Preston North End, another of the founding members of the Football League, since 1878. Some of our other stadiums to come weren’t home to their current team until after this date. In the inaugural season of the Football league, Preston won both the league title and the FA Cup. They were the first team to achieve the domestic double in English football and are remembered as the original ‘Invincibles’ after going the entire campaign unbeaten. 

5. Rodney Parade, Newport (1877)

Rodney Parade features on our list despite being a rugby stadium for much of its lifetime. Built in 1877, Newport RFC played their first game there just a few years later. It wasn’t until 2012 that Newport County moved from Newport Stadium to play its home fixtures at Rodney Parade. With Newport County in residence, Rodney Parade is one of the oldest sports venues in the English Football League. With so much history, it’s good to see there is still life in the ground yet! 

6. Stamford Bridge, Chelsea (1877)

Opened in 1877, the stadium was originally used by the London Athletic Club. In 1905 Chelsea Football Club were formed and moved in to occupy the ground. They have played their home games at The Bridge ever since. The ground has undergone major changes over the years, most recently in the 1990s when it was renovated into a modern, all-seater stadium. With further plans to expand the stadium, Stamford Bridge looks set to retain its rich history for a long time to come. 

7. Tannadice Park, Dundee (1870)

Scotland makes its mark on our list with Tannadice Park. Originally known as Clepington Park, the ground was first used for football in the 1870s. In 1909 a new club, Dundee Hibernian, was formed. Rather than building a new ground, the club controversially approached the landlord of Clepington Park to secure the ready-made venue. Located just 180 meters from Dens Park, home of city rivals Dundee, the two grounds are the closest football stadiums in the UK. 

8. Field Mill, Mansfield (1861)

Mansfield Town’s Field Mill is the oldest professional ground in the Football League. It has been used as a football ground since 1861, making it the longest serving football ground in our list. The first grandstand was built in 1922 along the west side of the ground, with the other three sides all completed by 1926. In 1929, using money from their cup run of the previous year, a covered stand was built on the Bishop Street side of the ground.  

9. Bramall Lane, Sheffield (1855)

Sheffield lays claim to another historical gem. The ground has played host to some of football’s most significant matches, including the final of the world’s first tournament, the Youdan Cup, in 1867. Despite being used by The Wednesday F.C, later renamed Sheffield Wednesday, it is now the home of Sheffield United. The Blades have played their home games at Bramall Lane since the club’s establishment in 1889. 

10. The Racecourse Ground, Wrexham (1801)

Our journey concludes in Wrexham, North Wales, with The Raceground Ground. Built in 1801, The Racecourse Ground holds the distinction of being the oldest football stadium that still hosts international football matches. Originally built for horse racing and cricket, it wasn’t until 1864 that the stadium was used to host football matches. With Wrexham making a climb back up the Football League, it might be a good time to go and watch a game in the UKs oldest football stadium. 

More than just football. 

Our exploration of the UKs 10 oldest football stadiums has been a journey through time. These grounds are more than just a place to watch football. They are cultural landmarks and the stages upon which generations of footballing stories have been told. Our hallowed grounds have witnessed the evolution of the English game, from its humble beginnings to the global phenomena that it is today. 

As more clubs move to modern, purpose-built, stadiums, it’s important that we cherish our few remaining historic venues. There really isn’t anything better than watching football in a ground steeped in footballing history.

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All our products are made from high-quality materials that are both comfortable and long-lasting. Our embroidered designs are carefully crafted using the latest techniques and highest quality materials to ensure that they remain durable and eye-catching, even after multiple washes.

Celebrate your own football superstar with our collection of t-shirts. Match winning moments, iconic celebrations, cult heroes. With The Terrace Apparel you can wear the moment.

This post was a guest post by Clifton Clothing, suppliers of custom apparel and promotions.

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With Klopp’s time on Merseyside drawing to an end, his tenure has undoubtedly etched him into Liverpool’s history as one of their greatest ever managers. The German has delivered countless memorable moments with his heavy metal football. In this latest edition of The Edit, we take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of Klopp’s standout achievements at Liverpool’s gaffer.

5. Divock Origi netted a 96th minute Merseyside derby winner

Anfield erupted into chaos as Divock Origi sealed a last-gasp, 96th minute, winner for Liverpool against Everton in the 2018/19 Merseyside derby. The Belgian forward capitalised on Jordan Pickford’s blunder and nodded home, sending the crowd into absolute bedlam. Jurgen Klopp couldn’t contain his joy, charging onto the pitch to join the celebrations with Alisson, the Liverpool keeper. The win moved the Reds to within two points of table-toppers, and defending champions, Manchester City after 14 games.

Post-match, Klopp was quick to offer apologies for his exuberant celebrations. He admitted to saying sorry to Everton boss Marco Silva for his pitch invasion, insisting it wasn’t his intention. Describing Origi’s fairy-tale winner, Klopp hailed it as a ‘really nice story’ after the striker had sustained a serious injury during the derby in 2016.

Known for his animated celebrations, Klopp’s departure from Anfield might even leave neutrals nostalgic for his passionate fist pumps.

4. Liverpool thrash Manchester United 7-0 at Anfield

Despite an underwhelming season by Klopp’s usual high standards, Liverpool still managed to thrash arch-rivals Manchester United 7-0 at Anfield in March 2023. It was their biggest ever win over their fierce rivals. Cody Gakpo kicked off the scoring just before halftime, setting the stage for a second-half onslaught nobody saw coming. Klopp’s team made it 3-0 inside 50 minutes, 5-0 by the 75th minute and it ended up at 7-0. They completely outclassed the high-flying visitors. Going into the match, United had won eight of their last 10 games, including clinching the Carabao Cup against Newcastle United at Wembley.

This historic 7-0 drubbing also marked a milestone for Mohamed Salah, hailed as one of Klopp’s best-ever signings. The Egyptian became Liverpool’s leading scorer in Premier League history. His brace, and Liverpool’s sixth goal, took his tally to 129, surpassing Robbie Fowler’s previous record.

Klopp’s men finished two places behind United in the Premier League that season. But, no Liverpool supporter will ever forget the madness that unfolded at Anfield that March. It was the most emphatic scoreline in the long history of this titanic clash.

3. THAT infamous Champions League semi-final comeback against Barcelona

Liverpool’s Champions League semi-final victory against Barcelona in May 2019 is one of the greatest comebacks in the competition’s history. Klopp masterminded a remarkable 4-0 win against the Catalan giants after suffering a 3-0 defeat in the first leg. Many were ready to write off Klopp’s Reds after that brutal beating at Camp Nou. But the German never lost his faith. 

Anfield, as it always does for big Champions League nights, was absolutely rocking that evening. And then, after just seven minutes, Divock Origi started the unlikely revival, slotting one in from close range. But it was when substitute Georginio Wijnaldum bagged two goals after halftime that the tide really turned in Liverpool’s favour. And let’s not forget that infamous quickly taken corner by Trent Alexander-Arnold that set up Origi’s goal to complete the turnaround.

Liverpool have had some epic European comebacks before – cue the memories of that legendary night in Istanbul – but this one? This one might just top it.

2. Liverpool won their first-ever Premier League title. 

Jurgen Klopp led Liverpool to their first-ever Premier League title in 2020. Smashing records left, right, and centre along the way. With a massive 99 points, they finished a whopping 18 points ahead of second-placed Manchester City. The title party kicked off with a bang as Liverpool beat Chelsea 5-3 at Anfield on the final matchday

The game itself was end-to-end. Naby Keita, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Georginio Wijnaldum had the home crowd in party mode with a 3-0 lead, but Olivier Giroud pulled one back just before halftime. Roberto Firmino extended the lead after the break, only for Tammy Abraham and Christian Pulisic to bring Chelsea back into the mix at 4-3. Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain capped off the thrilling affair with a devastating counter-attack to secure the victory and start the celebrations.

That season, Liverpool rewrote the record books, with the longest streak of successive league wins (24) and hitting 30 league victories faster than any other team in English top-flight history, doing so in just 34 games. Plus, they clinched the title with a whopping seven games to spare, topping City’s previous record of five.

Klopp’s squad of 2019/20 will go down as one of the all-time greats in English football history. They also ended Liverpool’s agonising 30-year wait to lift the league title.

1. Champions League triumph for Klopp’s first trophy with Liverpool. 

Liverpool clinched their sixth Champions League crown in 2019 by outclassing fellow Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur 2-0 in Madrid. Klopp’s Reds, riding high from their semi-final comeback, wasted no time asserting dominance. Mohamed Salah coolly converted a penalty to put Liverpool ahead early on. Then, the hero of the semi-finals, Divock Origi, doubled the advantage with a late goal, capitalising on Spurs’ failure to clear a corner. For Klopp, it was his first trophy since his glory days with Borussia Dortmund back in 2012, signalling the start of a new golden era for Liverpool.

While the final wasn’t exactly a thriller for the neutrals, it put to bed the demons of Liverpool’s defeat to Real Madrid the previous year and served as sweet redemption for narrowly missing out on the Premier League title with a remarkable 97 points.

“It’s like this is still only the start” beamed Klopp in his post-match chat, and boy, was he right! 

Shop our Liverpool collection

Liverpool fans will fondly remember Jurgen Klopp as one of the all-time greats to ever sit in the Anfield dugout. The German has won every single trophy in club football with the Reds during his nine year stint in charge. Our Liverpool themed t-shirts offer a unique way to celebrate this iconic and defining legacy. 

All of our products are made from high-quality materials that are both comfortable and long-lasting. Our embroidered designs are carefully crafted using the latest techniques and highest quality materials to ensure that they remain durable and eye-catching, even after multiple washes.

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From the iconic to the downright comical, some Premier League goal celebrations are as memorable as the goals that they follow. In the next edition of The Edit, we’ll reflect on some of the most iconic goal celebrations from the Premier League, exploring the funniest, most ridiculous, and bizarre goal celebrations in recent times. 

Robbie Fowler’s infamous line sniffing gag.

Following his goal in the Merseyside derby at Anfield in 1999, Robbie Fowler stirred controversy with his celebration. He knelt down in front of the opposition supporters. Put a finger to his nostril. Then crawled along the byline whilst pretending to sniff it.

Fowler’s imitation of snorting a line of cocaine drew widespread criticism. Though his manager, Gerard Houllier, attempted to downplay the incident by claiming that Fowler was merely pretending to eat the grass. Nonetheless, the FA hit Fowler with a four-game ban and fined him £32,000 for his actions. 

Fowler’s celebration stemmed from years of targeted abuse from the Everton fans, with unfounded allegations of drug use against him. Love it, or hate it, it remains one of the most controversial goal celebrations in the history of the Premier League. 

Emmanuel Adebayor on his reunion with Arsenal. 

Emmanuel Adebayor, once a fan favourite at the Emirates, became public enemy number one with the Arsenal fans when he departed for Manchester City in 2009. His first appearance against his former club saw him subjected to relentless booing throughout from the travelling Gooners. But, when Adebayor rose highest to convert a Shaun Wright-Phillips cross, he seized the opportunity to taunt the visiting Arsenal supporters.

What followed has etched itself into Premier League history. The Togolese striker sprinted the full length of the pitch. Executed a euphoric knee slide. Then sat arms outstretched right in front of the Arsenal supporters. 

Adebayor was slapped with a £25,000 fine by the FA, while also being handed a two-game ban. The celebration is iconic, and almost started a riot in the away section. The perfect example of shithousery, and we love it!

Luis Suarez takes a dive in front of the Everton bench.

Luis Suarez is a player that revelled in the dark arts of the game. That was evident in 2012 during a heated Merseyside derby between Liverpool and Everton at Goodison Park. Ahead of the match, Everton manager David Moyes had accused Suarez of diving and suggested he could influence the referee into making hasty decisions against his team.

It turned out to be the worst thing Moyes could have said. Just 14 minutes into the game, Suarez scored for Liverpool. The forward sprinted towards the dugouts. Then, upon reaching the Everton bench, Suarez jumped up, and launched into a very deliberate swan-dive right in front of the Everton boss. To be fair to Moyes, he took it with good grace. 

It is a celebration that has gone down in Premier League folklore, and highlights just how much of a shithouse Luis Suarez was. Another great celebration, and another Merseyside derby entrant.

Jimmy Bullard ticks off his teammates at the Etihad. 

The half-time team talk represents an opportunity for players and managers to regroup, reassess, and make tactical adjustments. In 2008, Phil Brown chose a rather unconventional approach during Hull City’s match against Manchester City. Following a woeful first-half display, Brown gathered his players in front of the away supporters and delivered a scathing dressing-down right there on the pitch.

Fast forward to the same fixture in 2009, and Jimmy Bullard changed the narrative. After scoring an equalising penalty for Hull City, the charismatic midfielder orchestrated a celebration that would go down in Premier League history. Sitting his teammates down in a circle around him, Bullard playfully wagged his finger at them in response to his manager’s infamous reaction just 12 months earlier. 

The celebration cleverly poked fun at the manager. Rumour has it that Phil Brown also enjoyed the celebration. Undoubtedly, this remains one of the most iconic and memorable celebrations in Premier League history.

Jurgen Klinsmann dives his way into the heart of English football.

In the summer of 1994, Tottenham made headlines by signing Jurgen Klinsmann, one of the leading strikers in world football at the time. However, the German arrived in England under a cloud of controversy. The British press branded him as an arrogant cheat due to allegations of diving in previous high profile matches. Klinsmann’s reception was far from warm. Fans and tabloids alike made it clear that any attempts to deceive referees would not be tolerated in English football.

His Premier League debut came against Sheffield Wednesday. Klinsmann was greeted with a chorus of boos from fans who held aloft diving scorecards. Despite the hostile atmosphere, Klinsmann showcased his quality on the pitch. His big moment arrived with Spurs leading 3-2. A cross from Darren Anderton found the German forward who perfectly executed an unstoppable bullet header. 

While the goal itself was good, it was Klinsmann’s celebration that will stick in the memory. 

Leading his new teammates into the infamous dive routine, Klinsmann quickly endeared himself into the hearts of English football fans.

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If you’re a football fan, our t-shirts offer a unique way to celebrate your favourite iconic Premier League players and wear your team’s colours with pride. All of our products are made from high-quality materials that are both comfortable and long-lasting. Our embroidered designs are carefully crafted using the latest techniques and highest quality materials to ensure that they remain durable and eye-catching, even after multiple washes.

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Auxerre – The foundation of a rising star.

Eric Cantona’s professional career started with Auxerre, where he spent two years in the youth team before making his debut in November 1983. After a spell of national service, Cantona netted his first goal for Auxerre in a 2-0 win over Rouen in May 1985. On the final matchday of that season, Auxerre needed just a point to secure qualification for the UEFA Cup. Trailing 1-0 at halftime, Cantona stepped up, scoring the equalising goal from 25 yards out and unveiling his talent to the footballing world for the first time.

Cantona displayed early signs of his talent and unpredictability on the field. He had already developed a style marked by audacious dribbling, technical finesse, and an innate ability to create goal-scoring opportunities. These qualities would become defining features of his game in the years to come.

Although Cantona’s time in the first team at Auxerre was relatively brief, it was a crucial in his development as a footballer. He was gaining valuable experience in one of the top leagues in Europe, which would later serve as a strong foundation for his career.

Marseille – The childhood dream.

Cantona was a part of the France under-21 side that clinched the 1988 U21 European Championships, where he notably scored a hat-trick against England in the quarter-final. Shortly after the tournament, he completed a transfer to his boyhood club, Marseille, for a French record fee of FF22 million.

However, Cantona faced difficulties in making a significant impact at Marseille. In January 1989, during a friendly match against Torpedo Moscow, he kicked the ball into the crowd and tore off his shirt after being substituted. In response, the club banned him for a month.

Struggling to settle in Marseille, Cantona moved to Bordeaux and later Montpellier on loan deals. At Montpellier, he was involved in a physical altercation with teammate Jean-Claude Lemoult and even threw his boots at Lemoult’s face. Six of his teammates demanded Cantona’s dismissal, but the club chose to retain his services. Cantona played an instrumental role later that season as Montpellier went on to win the French Cup.

Upon his return to Marseille, Cantona regained his form. However, after a change in management, he was sold to Nimes for FF10 million. In December 1991, during a match for Nimes, Cantona expressed his frustration by throwing the ball at the referee following one of his decisions. This action resulted in a one-month ban after a disciplinary hearing. In response, Cantona walked up to each member of the hearing committee, calling them each an “idiot.” His ban was subsequently extended to two months, and Cantona announced his retirement from football.

The French national coach, Michel Platini, who was a fan of Cantona, persuaded him to make a comeback. Cantona moved to England where he would restart his career.

Leeds United – The turning point.

Eric Cantona joined Leeds United in 1992. His arrival at Elland Road marked a significant turning point in both his career and the club’s fortunes. At the time, Leeds United was competing in the English First Division, which later became the Premier League.

Cantona’s impact on the club was immediate and transformative. His playing style and charisma made him an instant sensation. Fans were drawn to his vision, dribbling skills, and audacious flair.

During the 1991-92 season, Cantona played a crucial role as Leeds clinched the English First Division title. It was their first top-flight championship in 18 years. Cantona’s contribution was significant, as he scored 25 goals in all competitions.

Cantona’s performances at Leeds not only led to silverware but also to a growing reputation as a footballing icon. He was known for his fearless and inventive style of play, captivating fans and inspiring his teammates. His time at Leeds laid the foundation for the success he would achieve later in his career. His influence on the club and the English game was undeniable. While his performances were a glimpse of the extraordinary talent and charisma that would make him a football legend.

Cantona’s time at Leeds United came to an abrupt end in 1992. His relationship with Leeds manager, Howard Wilkinson, had broken down. After a disappointing performance in a Champions League defeat to Rangers at Ibrox, Cantona walked straight down the tunnel and was subsequently dropped for the next match against QPR. A couple of weeks later, following a League Cup defeat to Watford, he responded by submitting a transfer request.

Later that month, Cantona transferred to Manchester United, where he would go on to solidify his legendary status and remain celebrated as one of the most iconic figures in football history.

Manchester United – The King’s reign.

Cantona’s arrival at Manchester United in November 1992 marked the beginning of a golden era for the club. The transfer, which cost a mere £1.2 million, was one of the greatest bargains in football history. Sir Alex Ferguson, the manager of Manchester United at the time, recognised Cantona’s potential to transform his United team.

Cantona’s influence was immediate. Not only was he a prolific goal scorer, he was also the catalyst for success. During his five-year tenure at Old Trafford, Cantona led Manchester United to numerous trophies, including four Premier League titles and two FA Cups.

What set Cantona apart was not just his footballing ability, but his charismatic and enigmatic personality. Fans affectionately referred to him as “King Eric” signifying his presence on the pitch. He had an unmatched ability to inspire his teammates with his leadership and the belief that they could achieve greatness.

Cantona’s playing style was marked by his creativity, audacity, and the ability to make the impossible seem effortless. He often created moments of magic from seemingly impossible positions. His presence on the field elevated the performances of those around him. He played a pivotal role in transforming Manchester United from a good team into a great one.

One of Cantona’s most memorable achievements during his time at Manchester United was his role in helping the club secure the Premier League title in the 1993-94 season. This title ended Manchester United’s 26-year wait for a league championship. Cantona’s contributions, including 25 goals in all competitions, were instrumental in this historic achievement.

The incident – “When the seagulls follow the trawler”

While Cantona’s time at Manchester United was glittered with remarkable success and unforgettable moments, it was not without controversy. The infamous “Kung-Fu Kick” incident in January 1995 remains one of the most notorious moments in football history.

During a match against Crystal Palace, Cantona was shown a red card. In a moment of frustration, he launched a kung-fu-style kick at a heckling fan. The incident was captured by the television cameras making it one of the most publicly scrutinised events in football history.

The incident sent shockwaves throughout the footballing world. Cantona’s actions were widely condemned, and the footballing authorities acted swiftly. The Football Association imposed a nine-month ban on Cantona. He also faced a £20,000 fine and had to carry out 120 hours of community service.

Journalists and reporters eagerly awaited Cantona’s response to his suspension after the high-profile disciplinary hearing had concluded on March 4, 1995. “When seagulls follow the trawler, it is because they think sardines will be thrown into the sea,” he proclaimed before rising and exiting the press conference, leaving the gathered reporters in a state of profound bewilderment. Was this an enigmatic retirement message of some kind? It wasn’t, but the quote has gone down in football history.

While the kung-fu incident tarnished his reputation, it also highlighted the complexity of Cantona’s character. His banishment from football for nearly nine months was a significant blow to both Manchester United and the player himself. United had initially considered terminating Cantona’s contract. Instead, they stood by their star player and eagerly awaited his return which came in October, 1995.

An early retirement.

In May 1997, at the age of just 30, Eric Cantona announced his sudden retirement from football. His departure left a void at Manchester United both on and off the pitch. However, Cantona’s contribution to English football remained unforgettable.

After retiring, Cantona pursued various interests, including acting. He also had a brief stint as the director of football for the New York Cosmos. Today, Eric Cantona’s legacy endures as one of the iconic figures in football history. His impact on English football extended beyond statistics and titles. He played a crucial role in popularising the English Premier League as it established itself as a global football powerhouse. He brought a touch of continental flair, setting a standard for foreign players in the league.

Cantona’s style of play, his ability to conjure moments of magic, and his leadership influenced a generation of young footballers. Players like Thierry Henry, Zinedine Zidane, and David Beckham drew inspiration from the French maestro.

In 2019, Eric Cantona received the prestigious “UEFA President’s Award” for his outstanding contribution to the sport. The award recognised not only his brilliance on the field but also his charismatic personality, solidifying his status as a football legend.

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Eric Cantona’s journey from the streets of Marseille to the grounds of Old Trafford continues to captivate fans. If you’re a fan of King Eric and Manchester United’s golden era, our t-shirts offer a unique way to celebrate this iconic football journey.

All of our products are made from high-quality materials that are both comfortable and long-lasting. Our embroidered designs are carefully crafted using the latest techniques and highest quality materials to ensure that they remain durable and eye-catching, even after multiple washes.

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Join us as we trace the history of one of world football’s most iconic stadiums.

Everton’s controversial time at Anfield

While Anfield is now synonymous with Liverpool Football Club, it was originally the home of their local rivals, Everton. When Anfield was first built back in 1884, Everton were on the look-out for a new ground having outgrown their previous homes at Stanley Park and Priory Road. John Houlding, a member of Everton’s board of directors, saw an opportunity to build a larger stadium on the site of a nearby field in Anfield, previously home to Everton Cricket Club. Houlding bought the field and leased the land to Everton Football Club for an annual rent of £100. The Blues moved in for the 1884/85 season, and won their first game 5-0 as they defeated Earlestown.

By 1888 Everton had become a professional football club and played their first Football League fixtured against Accrington Stanley at Anfield.

In 1891 a 50ft flagpole which had once been the top mast abord SS Great Eastern was purchased by Everton FC from a local shipyard in Rock Ferry. The flagpole was floated across the Mersey and hauled up to Anfield by a team of horses where it was positioned in the corner of the ground. The flagpole is still a striking feature at Anfield more than a century on.

Flying from the flagpole later that year was Anfield’s first league championship flag as Everton won the First Division at only their third attempt. But while the Blues enjoyed success on the pitch, tensions began to rise off it. A bitter dispute eventually broke out when Houlding attempted to increase the rent, leading Everton to move to a new venue on Goodison Road in 1892.

After Everton’s departure, Houlding decided to form his own club and so Liverpool Football Club was born.

Liverpool’s early years at Anfield

Houlding’s newly formed Liverpool’s played their first fixture at Anfield in a friendly against Rotherham Town in September 1892. John Miller had the honour of scoring Liverpool Football Club’s first goal in a 7-1 win. After one season in the Lancashire League, Liverpool were elected to the Second Division of the Football League. In 1893, just a year after moving to Anfield, Liverpool won the Second Division title and gained promotion to the top flight of English football, igniting their famous Merseyside rivalry.

The maiden clash between Liverpool and Everton came in October 1894 and was played at Goodison Park. Everton ran out 3-0 winners in front of a crowd estimated to be around 44,000. The first Anfield derby took place just over one month later, in November 1894, and saw the teams battle out a 2-2 draw.

By 1901 Anfield was home to the champions of England for the second time with Liverpool following Everton’s achievement from a decade earlier. Alex Raisbeck, regarded as one of the greatest players of his era, captained the Reds to their first of their 18 top-flight titles. On the back of this success, a new terrace was built on the Anfield Road side of the ground, a year after the club’s founding farther, John Houlding, had passed away.

The story behind the legendary Spion Kop.

Liverpool’s early years at Anfield were far from glamorous and the stadium was little more than a basic playing field with a single wooden stand. When Liverpool first moved to Anfield, the ground was in a state of disrepair, and the club had to work hard to make it suitable for their needs. The pitch was often muddy and uneven, and the facilities were basic at best. The players had to change in a nearby pub, and there were no floodlights or covered stands.

By 1906 the official capacity of Anfield was 25,000, but when an estimated 35,000 crammed into the ground for a derby day fixture that Easter, it was clear that demand was significantly outweighing the supply. Liverpool went on to clinch their second league championship that season, and once the campaign was over, engineer Archibald Leitch was tasked with overseeing an ambitious redevelopment.

Once finished, Anfield was a completely enclosed, the pitch was raised, and the corners were rounded to enable the stands to be joined together. The new grandstand was the first in football to be built with reinforced concrete, with a red and white arched gable in the centre bearing the words ‘Liverpool Football Club’.

And, if you sat in the new grandstand and glanced to your right, you’d see ab imposing structure that would soon become part of footballing folklore.

The Spion Kop was a huge standing terrace capable of holding up to 20,000 spectators. Soon after the newly developed Anfield opened its gates, a record crowd of 40,000 watched the Merseyside derby.

The Spion Kop was famous for its noise and passion, with Anfield considered one of the most intimidating places to play for visiting teams. Sadly, it was demolished in 1994 as part of a wider renovation of Anfield. However, the memory lives on, and it remains an important part of Liverpool’s history and identity. Today, the “Kop Stand” stands in its place, which has a capacity of around 12,000 seats and continues to be a key part of the stadium’s atmosphere.

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The post Terrace History: Anfield, tracing the history of Liverpool’s iconic stadium. appeared first on The Terrace Apparel.

Lee: Thanks for joining us at The Edit, Josh. Tell us about your Twitter profile @nocontextunited and what people can expect if they follow you.

Josh: It started back in 2019 and the whole ‘no context’ thing was really popping off on Twitter, especially gimmick accounts for popular movies and TV series. It wasn’t long before one or two football ones started appearing on my feed. I remember seeing an “Out of Context Arsenal” profile appearing and it just blew up. Naturally, I had to make one for United. There is an endless stream of United related media that can be taken out of context.

Twitter Journey

Lee: So how did @nocontextunited start from there?

Josh: The account started with content from Lois van Gaal, and his many bizarre press conferences, or GIFs from cult heroes like Anderson, Phil Jones and Danny Welbeck. It blew up immediately, much to my surprise. I started posting some stuff on the way back from university one day and didn’t think much of it. By the end of the day the account had over 25,000 followers. It was mad. Not long after the account was featured in some online articles, and it just kept growing from there.

In the last few years a couple of United players have interacted with the account. Players like Bruno Fernandez, Andreas Pereira and Ander Herrera. It also gave me the chance to do a video interview with former player, Nick Culkin. I had a good chat with Nick about his appearance vs. Arsenal during United’s treble winning season. He actually broke the record in that game for the shortest substitute appearance of all-time, his ONLY Premier League appearance as well. The clip of his famous substitution featured on my Twitter account and someone had tagged him in the comments, which prompted me to reach out. He’s such a nice guy and had some great stories to tell. It was a real pleasure speaking with him.

In the last few years a couple of United players have interacted with the account. Players like Bruno Fernandez, Andreas Pereira and Ander Herrera.

Lee: So who is the audience for your Twitter page?

Josh: Mainly United fans, but I’m sure there are a lot of rival fans that enjoy the content as well. Particularly after a defeat for United! The account is now closing in on 150,000 followers, which is a crazy milestone. I’d like to evolve the account one day and turn it into something bigger. For now it’s fun just using it for what it is. Anyone wanting to follow the account can find us @nocontextunited on Twitter, @nocontextunited on Facebook and on @nocontextunited VOLE.

Favourite Players

Lee: Who is your favourite United player, and why?

Josh: In the current squad, it would have to be Rashford. He’s a local lad and I’ve really enjoyed watching his progression with United. He’s an admirable role-model for the younger generation with everything that he’s done on, and off, the pitch.

He’s an admirable role-model for the younger generation with everything that his done on, and off, the pitch.

Lee: And what about outside of United. Who is your favourite player that plays for another club?

Josh: Neymar. He’s just a special player. There aren’t many players like him anymore who play with so much skill and flair. I used to love Ronaldinho when I was younger and Neymar has elements of him in his game.

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Football Memories

Lee: What is your earliest footballing memory?

Josh: The 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan. Whilst I can’t remember watching any one game in particular, I do remember that was the first time I really got into football. I used to go to an after school club at primary school and the games and highlights would sometimes be on the TV. And from them on it just stuck, I was addicted just like every other football fan.

Lee: What is your favourite footballing memory?

Josh: The first time watching United play live. It was at Old Trafford as well. I’ve been lucky enough to go plenty of times since, but the first time will always be my favourite. United beat Spurs 3-0 in the 2014/15 season and Rooney, who is my favourite player ever, scored a great goal and did that iconic boxing celebration literally right in front of me. I’ll never forget that.

Season Expectations

Lee: Where do you think United will finish this season?

Josh: I think we’ll be good enough for the top four. If we can get a 4th place finish and win a trophy, I think most United fans would be pretty happy. The main thing for United fans this season is seeing a change in the attitude of the players and seeing more structure to the way we play. Erik Ten Hag has made a great start so far, and hopefully, this will continue.

The Terrace Apparel

I love what you do at The Terrace Apparel. I’m really please that we were able to collaborate on the Wayne Rooney and Lois van Gaal designs. They’re both iconic moments from United’s recent history and are always popular features on @nocontextunited. I’d urge any United fan to take a look at them using the links below.

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Louis Van Gaal T-Shirt

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The post Fan Interview: with Manchester United fan, and Twitter legend, Joshua Long appeared first on The Terrace Apparel.

Lee: So Courtney, tell us about your channel Courtney_Neary and what people can expect from your match-day vlogs.

Courtney: I started my YouTube channel in 2020 when I came back to the UK after the first coronavirus lockdown. I had missed being around Anfield and the city and realised I can fill a void for the millions of fans around the world that hadn’t been fortunate enough to get to a game themselves. With games played behind closed doors, I started filming tours around Anfield and the surround area as well as the murals around the stadium.

Fast forward to 2021, and I started filing matchday vlogs from inside the ground, as well as filming away days. I managed to bring our Wembley final experience to the stream and vlogged my few days in the capital around the fixture. Although the channel is targeted towards Liverpool fans, it can be enjoyed by fans of any team. I’ve even had comments from Everton and United fans! My vlogs are usually posted the night of the game, or the day after, and I try to get to as many games as possible.

Favourite Players

Lee: Who is your favourite Liverpool player, and why?

Courtney: My favourite player in the current squad is The Greek Scouser, aka Kostas Tsimikas. He has a great sense of humour, similar to my own, and I love seeing him in the videos that the Liverpool media team put out. I also holiday to Greece every year and actually visited the island where he grew up. We were told we’d signed a good player, and after seeing him in the 2021 pre-season, I had to agree. This year, the Greek locals shouted ‘Tsimikas’ or ‘Greek Scousers’ every time they saw me in my Liverpool shirt. His penalty in the FA Cup final also gives him a place in the heart of every Liverpool fan.

My favourite player in the current squad is The Greek Scouser, aka Kostas Tsimikas.

Lee: What about outside of Liverpool. Who is your favourite player that plays for another club?

Courtney: I really like Lewandowski and Pulisic. Both played for Klopp at Dortmund and seem to have maintained a good relationship with him. I’d love to see either one of them end up at Anfield with Jurgen as I think both would suit out style of play.

Footballing Memories

Lee: What is your earliest footballing memory?

Courtney: That would probably be the 2005 Champions League final in Istanbul. I was 6 at the time and remember watching it at home on the TV with my mum, but going to bed at half-time. Mum did put the TV on in my room for me though, so I did managed to see it all! We then ended up at the parade around the city the next day with my aunty and uncle. I was stood around Anfield and I remember seeing Stevie at the front of the bus with the trophy in his arms. I think I have been a red ever since!

Lee: What is your favourite footballing memory, although that takes some beating!?

Courtney: It has to be being at Wembley for the FA Cup semi-final last season and beating Manchester City 3-2. I had an incredible seat right by the corner flag, and seeing the place erupt when we scored is something that I’ll never forget. It felt like the whole stadium just became a sea of red with flares going off everywhere. Dancing to ‘One Kiss’ stood on my chair was the cherry on top. A great day.

Another memory has to be the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona. Overcoming that 3-0 deficit is unthinkable, but under the lights at Anfield, anything is possible. The moment that really stands out is Trent’s quickly taken corner. It’s iconic. Which is why I love the t-shirt from The Terrace Apparel. It’s a great way to show off such a memorable moment.

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The moment that really stands out is Trent’s quickly taken corner. It’s iconic.

Season Expectations

Lee: What are your expectations for this season? Can you beat City to the title?

Courtney: I see us having another strong season, even after the start that we’ve had. I think the Premier League will be more competitive with more teams challenging for the title, but I still see it being between us and City. It would be nice to get in a few cup finals along the way as well. I think Nunez and Carvalho look like really promising signings, and Diaz looks like he’ll continue his amazing form. As long as we don’t get any serious injuries, we have one of the strongest squads in the league.

You can view Courtney’s matchday vlogs on YouTube at Courtney_Neary.

The post Fan Interview: with Liverpool fan, and YouTube vlogger, Courtney Neary. appeared first on The Terrace Apparel.