Ray Kennedy
1946-2021
Ray Kennedy was one of English football’s most complete and versatile players, achieving rare success with two major clubs: Arsenal and Liverpool. Born in Northumberland in 1946, he joined Arsenal in 1966 and became a key figure in their historic 1971 League and FA Cup Double, scoring the title-winning goal at Tottenham.
In 1974 he was signed by Liverpool manager Bill Shankly on the very day Shankly announced his retirement—a move that would redefine Kennedy’s entire career. Under Bob Paisley, he transitioned from striker to left-sided midfielder, becoming one of Europe’s finest in that role.
At Liverpool, Kennedy won five league titles, three European Cups, a UEFA Cup, and scored decisive goals in some of the club’s biggest matches. His strength, balance, vision, and technique made him a central figure in Liverpool’s golden era.
Kennedy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 1990 and lived courageously with the condition for more than 30 years. He passed away in 2021, remembered as a footballing great and an inspiration far beyond the pitch.