Emlyn Hughes 1947-2004 - A legend leaves us

Former England and Liverpool captain Emlyn Hughes has died from a brain tumour at the age of 57.

Hughes won 62 caps for England and won five league championship medals, two European Cup winner's medals and two FA Cup winner's medals in his time at Anfield. He also won the League Cup with Wolves in 1980.

As a teenager he started his playing career at Blackpool. However he only played 31 games for the club as he was soon catching the attention of one of the bigger club.

The great Bill Shankly was a great admirer of the 19-year-old midfielder and so Liverpool paid a then massive #65,000 for him in 1967.

Such was the esteem Shankly held him in it was reported that after the transfer was complete, Shankly said to a policeman: "Don't you know who is in this car? There sits the future captain of England!"

As usual Shankly was right as he captained his country 23 times. Many remember Hughes as one of the most inspirational signings Bill Shankly made as Liverpool manager and his pivotal role in the success of the 70's team. Others will remember him one of the faces from 'A Question of Sport'.

Liverpool Chief Executive Rick Parry said: "Our deepest sympathies go out to wife Barbara, children Emma and Emlyn junior, and the rest of the family at this sad time."

There wil be a minute's silence at Liverpool's Carling Cup tie against Middlesborough tomorrow night.