Liverpool FC is mourning the loss of one of its legendary figures, Ron Yeats, who passed away at the age of 86 after battling Alzheimer's disease in recent years. Yeats was a transformative player during Bill Shankly's era and played a crucial role in lifting Liverpool out of the Second Division in the early 1960s.

Signed from Dundee United in July 1961, Yeats quickly became a central figure at Anfield, earning the nickname "colossus" from Shankly, who famously invited reporters to "walk around him" during his unveiling. His impact was immediate, helping Liverpool secure promotion in his first season. He was also appointed captain just months after joining, a position he held for eight full seasons.

Under his leadership, Liverpool won their first FA Cup in 1965, with Yeats famously collecting the trophy at Wembley. He also led the team to league titles in 1964 and 1966 and was a key player as Liverpool ventured into European competitions for the first time.

After leaving Liverpool as a player in 1971, with 454 appearances to his name, Yeats continued his football career with various clubs before returning to Liverpool as chief scout in 1986. He served in that role for 20 years, discovering talents like Sami Hyypia.