Robbie Fowler - A year ago today

Last updated : 27 November 2002 By LFC Online
So after fifteen years at the club, eight playing first team football, 'God' as he was known departed for pastures new. (although these same pastures are looking a bit bare at the moment)

Spokesman Ian Cotton's words on the night in question: "We have agreed a fee with Leeds for Robbie Fowler and we have given him permission to talk to the club. It is now up to Robbie to finalise personal terms."

The annoucement came just hours after Assistant boss Phil Thompson's insistence that Liverpool wanted the player to stay, and that no bid had been received. But while the majority of us were sad to see Robbie go, there was a feeling that it really was for the best.

Fowler himself spoke of his need for first team games, and how it was time to move on despite the enormous tug of the fans hoping he's stay.

He said: "I have had nearly 15 years with Liverpool and eight wonderful years in the Liverpool team, but I think it must be obvious to everyone that the time has come to move on.

"It was always going to be a difficult decision to leave Liverpool, because even if I have my own reasons, the fans there were a powerful reason for me to stay.

"But Leeds are a great club, and the chance to be part of what is happening at Elland Road was too good to miss, particularly under the current circumstances.

"Like every footballer, I just want to play, and I want the chance to be part of things. I hope if the deal goes through, I'll get that chance at Leeds.

"I'm not interested in recriminations, but I think this is the best thing now for me and for Liverpool.

"Nobody leaves Liverpool lightly, but there were a lot of considerations in my decision, and I think if everything goes all right, then this is the perfect move for me."

However on a lighter note, who'll forget Fowler's prediction that Leeds United would win the Championship that year.

Said Fowler: "One thing I shall predict is that I can win the league here at Elland Road this season.

"Liverpool had a great year last season and are still well placed. But, at Leeds, there is a great team and we feel we can go all the way. This side really suits the way I play football and I am sure it will be a huge success."

Arf.