Inside Anfield: last day of the season

[rurikbird]

I love watching these as they remind me about the atmosphere of Anfield that I got to experience on my so far only visit there last summer. Lots of interesting stuff happening here, I only have one question – why do players dress up in suits and ties before the game? Is that just for the bus ride and the short walk from the bus to the showers (where they are going to change into training/playing gear)?

 

[TheFasterBlade]

Love the kid at 4.22 doing the Sturridge dance

 

[Ryan]

I only have one question – why do players dress up in suits and ties before the game? Is that just for the bus ride and the short walk from the bus to the showers (where they are going to change into training/playing gear)?

Two reasons:

1. They're probably sponsored by Hugo Boss or something.
2. More importantly, it sets expectations. These guys spend 6 day of the week coming into the club in training gear, or fucking around in god-awful streetwear. The purpose of the suit is to set the expectation of 'game-day' where they are there to deliver something different as professionals. Clubs at all levels do this - there are plenty of psychological studies that demonstrate the value of it too.

 

[ILD]

The NBA introduced a suit only rule at one stage too I think. Probably to stop certain players taking the piss and turning up on game night in ridiculous attire.

Rasheed Wallace used to arrive carrying a wrestling belt.

 

[gkmacca]

I think it originated in football as a working class thing - you put on your suit when you're off to do something important. It spoilt many a honeymoon.

 

[rurikbird]

Thanks for the explanations, everybody – now it makes sense. It is Hugo Boss, BTW – probably my least favorite men's fashion brand (found by the Nazis and I just don't get the style they are going for), but there you have it.

 

[gkmacca]

It's Boss, dat.

 

[Hansern]

It's Boss, dat.

What do you think about the new role Barrett has got at the club Macca? Seems a good idea to create a closer relationship with the fans.

 

[gkmacca]

I think he's a genuinely brilliant choice. He's a real, lifelong Red, he knows the club pretty much inside out, he knows how it operates, and he's a really decent bloke. So if anyone can make this work, he can. As for the position itself, it's well-meaning but a bit vague in terms of its powers. I think he'll have to choose his battles very carefully, and pursue them with a great clarity of purpose, rather than get bogged down trying to sort out multiple issues and arguments. But as I said, if anyone can really make this work both for the fans and the club, Tony can.