The rumours were true and Robbie Fowler has in fact returned to
Anfield. The Reds legend who is of course known to fans as “God”, has joined on a free transfer until the end of
the season. It’s a move that will thrill the majority of Reds fans.
Fowler left Anfield in 2001 when he signed for Leeds in a deal that was
publicly announced as being for £11 million, although it was later
claimed the actual amount was around £13 million. He’s now arrived
without costing the Reds a penny other than his wages, making him
excellent value if he can show anything like the form he’s remembered
for.
An announcement on the official site confirmed the news: “Liverpool
Football Club are delighted to announce that Robbie Fowler has rejoined
the club on a free transfer from Manchester City until the end of the
season when the situation will be reviewed. Fowler, 30, completed the
formalities of what is a sensational move this afternoon.”
The players is cup-tied and so won’t be able to line up against Portsmouth in the FA Cup on Sunday, but could well
make his “debut” against Birmingham at home on Wednesday night, should
Rafa Benitez choose to throw him straight in. He’ll also be eligible for the Champions League, ironically helped by the fact that City missed out on a place in Europe this season after Fowler missed a penalty that would have helped them to qualify at Middlesbrough’s expense.
Robbie was part of the squad that helped Liverpool to their five
trophies in 2001, when as vice-captain he was able to lift trophies for
the club due to the unfortunate injury club captain Jamie Redknapp was
suffering from at the time. A local lad (born in Toxteth) Fowler was
struggling to get a starting place in the side over that season due to
a rift with Gerard Houllier and Phil Thompson.
His presence on the pitch will be matched by his presence at Melwood,
and the thoughts of Morientes and Fowler teaching each other any tricks
the other didn’t know, watched by Pongolle and Crouch, must have Rafa
rubbing his hands together.