Football Club Buzz

John Aldridge thinks Pepe Reina is one of only a few ‘massive characters’ left in modern football – and claims Liverpool are lucky to have him.

The Spaniard released his autobiography this week in which he speaks of his love for the club and why he stayed despite offers from elsewhere.

For Aldridge, the book has only reiterated his belief that Reina is an indispensible part of the Kenny Dalglish project.

“He is a massive character – the kind of which you don’t get many of in football these days,” said Aldridge, who scored an astounding 63 goals in 104 games for Liverpool between 1987-89.

“We all saw the video of him leading the celebrations after Spain had won the World Cup, and that sums up his character. His teammates love him, and he must be fantastic to have in and around the dressing room. I’m yet to see a player who doesn’t speak very highly of him.

“On the pitch, too, he is a leader. You see him now, and he organises and talks to his defence. There aren’t many people who will shout at Jamie Carragher on a pitch, but Pepe will!

“Liverpool are lucky to have him.

“He might not be a local lad, and he might not have grown up with the club, but he cares about Liverpool. That comes across every time you hear him speak. He is a Spanish Scouser.”

Some believe Reina is the greatest custodian in Anfield history, and while Aldridge won’t that far, he reluctantly concedes the World Cup winner has surpassed the level reached by his friend Bruce Grobbelaar.

“I’ve said this before, but for me he is second only to Ray Clemence in terms of the club’s greatest ever goalkeepers,” said the former striker.

“It takes a lot for me to say that, too, as I played alongside Bruce Grobbelaar, who was absolutely fantastic, and won all kinds with the club.

“But Pepe is magnificent, and for me even better than Brucie.”

Source : Liverpool FC

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