Legendary Liverpool centre half Ron Yeats, famously described as a “colossus” by manager Bill Shankly, has passed away at the age of 86 after battling Alzheimer’s in recent years, the club announced.
Yeats joined Liverpool from Dundee United in 1961, becoming a key figure during a pivotal era for the club. Shankly, known for his colorful descriptions, famously introduced the towering Scotsman to the media by saying, “The man is a mountain! Go into the dressing room and walk around him.” Yeats was immediately named captain and became an influential leader on the pitch.
During his decade-long stint at Liverpool, Yeats led the team to two First Division titles and an FA Cup victory, playing a crucial role in the club’s promotion from the second tier. After leaving Liverpool in 1971, he continued his career with Tranmere Rovers, where he played for three more years.
Despite his success at the club level, Yeats’ international career was limited, as he made just two senior appearances for Scotland between 1964 and 1966.
