July 20, 1973
Eric Roberts hands over on high note
Mr. Eric Roberts, chairman of Liverpool Football Club for the last four years last night announced that he is handing over to director John Smith.
Mr. Roberts, who remains on the Liverpool Board, recently went to live in the Isle of Man, after retiring from his position as an executive with Barker and Dobson, the city sweet manufacturers.
He had hoped to continue as Liverpool’s chairman, but said last night that he felt unable to carry out the duties of the office from such a distance as the Isle of Man.
Last night he stressed the importance of the club developing its own talent, and so continuing the success it has attained over the last decade.
He told the men responsible for the senior sides – Tom Saunders, Ronnie Moran, and Geoff Twentyman: “If you feel it necessary to introduce new youngsters and you lose a game and maybe a championship, it is not the end of the world.
“Your principal task is to teach, coach and train the youngsters to ensure a steady supply of material, some of which may one day find its way into the Liverpool League side and maybe into the international sides.”
Mr. Roberts’ successor, John Smith, had a rapid rise to the chairman’s position. He was co-opted onto the Anfield board as recently as January, 1971, following the death of Mr. Harold Smith.
Among the principal guests at last nights banquet, were Sir Stanley Rous, President of FIFA, and Mr. Len Shipman, present of the Football League.
Mr. Shipman presented the first team squad and officials with their League championship plaques.
(Source: Liverpool Echo: July 21, 1973; via http://www.britishnewspaperarchive.co.uk) © 2018 Findmypast Newspaper Archive Limited
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