Source: TheGuardian
All the game can share in English clubs’ dizzying European glory | Sachin Nakrani
Premier League lockout of European finals has a global dimension that should not be ignoredGeorge Sephton has been Liverpool’s stadium announcer for 48 years and is such a part of the furniture there that he is known as The Voice of Anfield. His is a low, rumbling, almost soothing voice that makes pre-match announcements, names goalscorers during the game and wishes everyone a safe journey home after the final whistle. From his office in the Kop, Sephton, a 73-year-old born and bred Scouser, also plays records, often capturing the mood perfectly.That was the case a little before 10pm on Tuesday as the home spectators made their way to the exits following Liverpool’s 4-0 victory over Barcelona. Suddenly, Imagine by John Lennon struck up. Related: Premier League endgame: the data behind an historic title race 24 May 2000: Real Madrid 3-0 Valencia The first intra-national European Cup final in the competitions's 45-year history acted as the stage for Steve McManaman to write his name into Champions League folklore. The Englishman secured victory for Real in Paris with a stunning 67th-minute volley, with Fernando Morientes and Raúl scoring the others. Related: Football quiz: what do you know about the last day of the Premier League season? Related: European finalists deliver a very English great football moment forged overseas | Barney Ronay The venue: Estadio Metropolitano, Madrid (Saturday 1 June, 8pm) Continue reading......read full article
