Liverpool FC legend John Barnes Inspires

Youngsters learned ‘The Liverpool Way’ as John Barnes and four Liverpool FC International Academy coaches conducted a memorable coaching clinic

John Barnes was the star attraction at this weekend’s Liverpool FC Soccer Clinic, which was co-organised by Standard Chartered, the club’s sponsor. Barnes and four Liverpool FC International Academy coaches conducted three separate coaching sessions on Saturday and Sunday for a total of 180 juniors aged from six to 14, who are children of Standard Chartered staff and clients. 

The young footballers were taught ‘The Liverpool Way’ of playing in the two-hour training sessions. The children, who were all wearing Liverpool FC shirts, sampled a taste of life at Anfield as they entered the pitch through a replica of the famous Shankly Gates and enjoyed Club-themed activities. 

Amid the cheering of families and friends, every child received an official certificate and completed their training with a personal photo with Barnes, one of Liverpool FC’s greatest-ever players. 

“Being a part of the Liverpool FC Soccer Clinic in Hong Kong was a really special experience for me and I hope the youngsters enjoyed their time as much as I did. I saw a lot of talent there, some great enthusiasm and a lot of knowledge about Liverpool FC,” said Barnes, who was supported by four of the club’s International Academy coaches. 

“We had some strong training sessions and had a lot of fun, which comes with being part of Liverpool FC, one of the world’s greatest football families. Standard Chartered has been a fantastic supporter of Liverpool FC and its work in organising clinics like these across the world helps give children some great memories.”

Barnes said he enjoyed being back in Hong Kong and that he has his own great memories of visiting the city. “I’ve been to Hong Kong before and the passion for Liverpool FC has always been so strong here,” Barnes said. “It always amazes me how popular the club is everywhere I go and how much people know about the current and former players. I love it here and hope to return again soon.” 

Joining Liverpool FC in 1987, Barnes was a key player when the Club won the English league titles in 1987-88 and 1989-90. The left winger was the Football Writers’ Association (FWA) Player of the Year in 1987-88 and 1989-90, and the PFA Players’ Player of the year in 1987-88. 

Barnes spent 10 seasons with Liverpool and also won the FA Cup in 1988-89 and 1991-92. Representing England from 1983 to 1995, he won 79 caps, scored 11 goals and played in two memorable World Cup campaigns, reaching the quarter-finals at Mexico 86 and the semi-finals at Italia 90.