John Barnes Optimistic About Liverpool’s Multi-Front Challenge
John Barnes, the wiry Wirral wonder, is wearing a grin that could rival a Cheshire cat’s, standing amidst the festive glow of three Christmas trees in his Wirral abode. But don’t let the age of 60 fool you; he’s still got a sense of humor sharper than a freshly opened pack of Quality Street chocolates.
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John Barnes: A Grinning Cheshire Cat Amidst Christmas Trees
“I’m 60 years old now, and I feel it every time I bend over to tie my shoelaces or walk up the stairs,” he chuckles. “When I was 59, I felt 50, then two days later, I’m 60. The psychological aspect of having a six before my age… I’ve got to get my head around that!”
Amidst discussions about Liverpool’s stellar lineup, Barnes, the former forward, can’t escape the shadow of his other love – rapping. The maestro behind Anfield Rap and World In Motion has a new track, a rap – or wrap, as he playfully calls it – about recycling Quality Street wrappers.
Rapping and Recycling: John Barnes’ Playful Side Revealed
“I get stopped in the street by kids, but it’s not because I was a footballer,” he says with a twinkle in his eye. “They come up to me and say, ‘You’re that man from the rap.’ Everyone bangs on about the England one, but I reckon the Liverpool one for the 1988 FA Cup final was just as cool.”
He reminisces about the bygone days when Craig Johnston urged them to rap for the Cup final. “It wouldn’t happen these days… imagine Mo Salah beat-boxing! This new one and the Anfield one were a bit of fun, but the New Order one was a proper fantastic tune.”
Optimism in the Air: John Barnes’ Take on Liverpool’s Prospects
“Listen, there were a few alcoholic beverages going round one day, and Keith Allen said to me, ‘Let’s write a rap.’ Gazza (Paul Gascoigne) was there, Peter Beardsley had a go, but I did it. You’ve got to hold and give but do it at the right time!”
“The song is iconic; young people don’t know I’m a footballer but know I did the rap. The only bad thing was we didn’t foresee how big it was going to get, so we didn’t sign up for any royalties! We just split a small fee between 25 of us.”
Now, after delving into No. 1 hits on the music charts, Mail Sport shifts gears, questioning whether Liverpool, Barnes’ former club, can clinch the No. 1 spot in the Premier League this season.
Mo Salah, Legends, and Longevity: John Barnes Rates Liverpool’s Best
“Liverpool can challenge on all fronts,” Barnes asserts, his optimism gleaming like tinsel. “We’re very close to the top in the league, FA Cup we’re in the top two or few to win it. We are favorites to win the Europa League and still in the League Cup. I expect us to push Manchester City all the way this year in the Premier League, though.”
“Last season was a transitional period in terms of age and position,” he continues, breaking down the strategic decisions. “We trusted Jurgen so much and knew he would get the midfield situation right. Now (Alexis) Mac Allister and (Dominik) Szoboszlai have improved us immensely. The age and balance of the team are much better, it’s refreshed and we can push City again.”
Nostalgia and Strategy: John Barnes Reflects on Past Seasons
He acknowledges the enormity of the upcoming clash at the Etihad Stadium, emphasizing the old adage: “To be the best, you’ve got to beat the rest.” Reflecting on past near-misses, he muses, “I remember when we finished second on 97 points. Was that a failure? Of course not.”
Inevitably, the conversation shifts to Liverpool’s talisman, Mo Salah. “Mo won’t score as many as he used to, but that’s because Darwin is in the middle now, whereas it used to be Bobby (Firmino) who was more a creator than a finisher. But Mo has stepped up with more assists; he is super.”
Dream Team Revelations: John Barnes’ Six-a-Side Fantasy
“Mo is right up there with the best now in terms of Liverpool legends,” Barnes affirms, his voice carrying the weight of experience. “Kenny (Dalglish) and Stevie (Gerrard) had longevity. But if Mo stays for a few more years, he will finish right up there with the legends.”
And, finally, when asked to name a five-a-side team of former teammates, Barnes, in his whimsical style, requests permission to make it a six-a-side to fit everyone in. Bruce Grobelaar in goal. Steve Nicol and Alan Hansen at the back.
Glenn Hoddle and Stevie G in midfield, of course – have to include both of those. And again an easy one, Ian Rush up front. Kenny Dalglish as gaffer, and I’ll be on the bench! A team that could make even Santa envious, Barnes’ six-a-side dream echoes the camaraderie of a festive family gathering.
