August 28, 1893
Though Bootle has collapsed, interest will be sustained in the locality by the fact of the inclusion of Liverpool in the second division of the League. It says much to the credit of the Liverpool committee that, in spite of numerous adverse circumstances met with last year, all the players who were wanted have with one exception, returned to their old allegiance.
John Miller is the faithless one, he having gone over to The Wednesday. In his place the committee have secured James Henderson, from Annbank, who has an excellent local reputation, and who created a favourable impression at the practice on Friday evening. He is one the small side, certainly, but has much resource. Another new face is that of James Stott, late of Middlesbrough, who is a fine-built young fellow, and one who is well adapted for the hard usage of League games.
The team is now complete, and the following is a list of names: – William McOwen or Alex Rennie, goal; Andrew Hannah, Duncan McLean or Matt McQueen, backs; John McCartney, Joe McQue, and James McBride, half-backs; Patrick Gordon, Malcolm McVean, James Henderson, James Stott, and Hugh McQueen, forwards. This is undoubtedly a very strong combination, though a reserve forward or two is yet needed, and if each man should play up to expectations the team must meet with great success.
That the club is looked upon as something approaching first rank by those high in authority is proved by Liverpool being selected in the coveted “eighteen” in the English Cup competition, and in meeting with a similar honour in the connection with the Lancashire County Cup, an honour they are doubtless proud of. Most of the old officials retain their posts, and only a couple of alterations have taken place upon the committee, one of the new men being Mr. Ephraim Walker, C.C.
It is rumoured that Billy Hughes, late captain of Bootle, will be found assisting Liverpool when the season commences, and also that Dan Kirkwood may be selected to act as trainer to the team. If this is so a better selection could not be made, as, besides being a general favourite, he always commanded the respect of those who knew him. Mr. Alex Nisbet, who has charge of the second team, has gathered together a very fair set of amateurs, and judging by first appearances they ought to be very successful in connection with the Liverpool League. The first team fixtures are as follows –
(Source: Liverpool Mercury: August 28, 1893)
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