Former Liverpool captain Ron Yeats has passed away at 86. The defender made 454 appearances over a decade at the club from 1961 to 1971, ranking as the 22nd most-capped player in Liverpool’s history.
He captained the team in more than 400 matches, with only Steven Gerrard having led the Reds more often.
Yeats, a Scotsman, cemented his legendary status at Anfield by leading Liverpool to their first FA Cup victory in 1965, overcoming Leeds in the final after extra time.
The official Liverpool FC website announced this morning that Yeats, affectionately known as ‘Rowdy’ by fans, died on Friday night after a struggle with Alzheimer’s in recent years.
When Bill Shankly recruited Yeats in 1961, Liverpool was still in the Second Division. However, they secured promotion at the end of his first season and claimed the league title just two years later.
Yeats was appointed captain shortly after joining the club, a testament to his significance as noted by Shankly, who advised the press to ‘walk around him’ during the player’s introduction.
After retiring from playing, Yeats returned to Anfield in 1986 as chief scout, a role he held for 20 years, discovering talents like Sami Hyypia.
A dedicated servant to Liverpool for 30 years both on and off the pitch, the Aberdeen native was a towering figure in every sense. His legendary status is well-earned, and his role as the first FA Cup-winning captain guarantees his place in Liverpool FC’s illustrious history.
Our condolences to Ron’s family and friends during this difficult time.
