Legendary footballer Sir Kenny Dalglish is set to receive the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the upcoming BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2023. The former Liverpool and Celtic star, who scored a remarkable 167 goals in 320 appearances for Celtic before moving to Liverpool, will be presented with the award on Tuesday.
Renowned as ‘King Kenny’ among Liverpool fans, Dalglish played a pivotal role in leading Liverpool to numerous victories, including their European Cup triumph against Club Brugge at Wembley in 1978. He holds the distinction of being the only player to score over 100 league goals in both Scotland and England.
In a humble and heartfelt statement, Dalglish expressed his gratitude to all those who supported him throughout his career. He acknowledged the vital role played by his fellow players and dedicated supporters, emphasizing the importance of team success in his journey to becoming a football legend.
Reflecting on the transition from player to manager, Dalglish admitted that while he initially struggled with the change, the unwavering support of Liverpool’s senior leadership helped him navigate his new role. Despite missing the camaraderie of the dressing room, he embraced the new phase of his career with a sense of destiny guiding his path.
BBC Sport’s Director, Barbara Slater, praised Dalglish’s unwavering dedication to the sport of football, both as a player and a manager. She highlighted his remarkable leadership, particularly during the tragic events of Hillsborough in 1989, and applauded his status as a true inspiration to aspiring athletes.
The Lifetime Achievement Award stands as a testament to Dalglish’s outstanding contributions to the world of football and his enduring impact as a leader both on and off the field. His legacy will forever remain a source of inspiration for future generations of football enthusiasts.