Liverpool may have to leave Anfield, Says John W Henry

08 July 2011 11:53
Liverpool owner John W Henry has confirmed the club may have to move away from Anfield if they are to fulfil their dream of building a bigger stadium. [LNB]The Merseysiders are acutely aware they need to increase capacity but are in limbo over whether to redevelop their current base or move across to Stanley Park. [LNB] End of an era: Henry concedes the famous sight from the Kop could become a thing of the past[LNB] [LNB] The current 45,000 cap on spectators is greatly reducing gate receipts compared to the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal. But the Liverpool chief has made it clear the club are keeping all of their options open.   [LNB]In response to a question from a supporter on Twitter, Henry wrote: 'Anfield would certainly be our first choice.[LNB]'But realities may dictate otherwise. So many obstacles...'[LNB]A move away from the club's home of 119 years would be opposed by many die hard fans, but the reality is theNorth West giants may not have much choice in the matter. [LNB]Aswitch to Stanley Park would appear to be the most likely next step. However, it has been reported that a decision from the Reds will have tobe made swiftly as Liverpool City Council's offer of a 999-year lease on the area set to expire in September.[LNB] Glory nights: If Anfield goes, with it will disappear a myriad of famous memories[LNB] [LNB] However, the club have distanced themselves from reports which suggested they were already resigned to building a new ground.[LNB]'The club's position on the stadium issue remains unaltered and no decision has been made," said a spokesman.[LNB]'We are continuing to examine both the options - the refurbishment of Anfield and the new stadium in Stanley Park. A huge amount of work on that is ongoing and an announcement will be made in due course.'[LNB] Previous plans: The Reds looked set to move to Stanley Park in 2006 into this new arena[LNB] [LNB] Moving to Stanley Park would overcome many of the restrictions the club currently have to work with at Anfield as a new purpose-built stadium could provide the increased seating and hospitality opportunities required to boost matchday revenue.[LNB]And, having seen Manchester City follow the likes of Arsenal in securing a multi-million pound naming rights deal for their ground, a similar route for the Reds would help offset some of the estimated ?300million building costs. [LNB] CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR FREE FANTASY FOOTBALL GAMELiverpool new boy Adam eyes silverware after completing ?9m switch to Anfield Likened to Messi last year, now Cole's fighting to prove he's more than just an average Joe Liverpool ramp up bid to sign Downing but Aston Villa reject ?15m offer All the latest Liverpool news, features and opinion[LNB] [LNB]

Source: Daily_Mail