NewsSir Kenny Dalglish receives 2026 PFA Merit Award

The legendary former Liverpool player and manager has been honoured by the Professional Footballers’ Association for his outstanding contribution to the game.

One of the most decorated British footballers in history, Dalglish joined the Reds from boyhood club Celtic in 1977 and went on to win a host of honours as a player, including six league titles and three European Cups.

He is also Scotland’s most-capped men’s player, with 102 appearances – and a record-equalling 30 goals – for his country.

Dalglish was appointed Liverpool’s player-manager in 1985 and won a double of First Division and FA Cup in his first season in charge. He lifted two more league championships and another FA Cup before resigning in 1991, in the aftermath of the Hillsborough disaster.

Indeed, Dalglish’s monumental footballing achievements pale into insignificance when his leadership following the tragic events of April 15, 1989, is reflected upon. His compassion, empathy and support for the bereaved families and survivors was – and remains – steadfast.

Dalglish later won the top-flight title as Blackburn Rovers boss in 1995 and managed Liverpool again between January 2011 and May 2012, winning the League Cup.

In 2017, Anfield’s Centenary Stand was renamed in Dalglish’s honour and he was knighted in 2018 in recognition of his services to football, charity and the city of Liverpool.

Sir Kenny and his wife, Lady Marina, established the Marina Dalglish Appeal in 2005 and have since raised more than £13 million to support cancer care and treatment facilities across Merseyside.