Growing up as a footballer is not always sunshine and lollipops, there can be some stressful and heartbreaking moments as with any career. At the end of it though depending on how you perceive achievement, football fans and media alike will look back at a players career to see how many trophies and medals have been accumulated in order to judge what is successful.
One award that has gathered some major respect throughout the Liverpool fans is ‘The Rattle Golden Samba’ award. The online forum first discussed the idea of the award back in 2010/11 and it takes reference from the official ‘Golden Samba’ in which the best Brazilian player throughout the European leagues is rewarded. And as scouser’s love nothing more than an Adidas trainer, it is truly fitting.
Although we think this no-expense spared, spray painted Adidas trainer is much more desired throughout the Liverpool squad than other awards it is often a highlight at the end of season lap of honour. Lucas Leiva was the first player to receive the award, since then it has been won by the likes of Luis Suarez, Jamie Carragher and Phil Coutinho.
This year was the turn of Sadio Mane who has been arguably Liverpool’s best player despite missing so much of the season through injury and international duty with Senegal.
A “Young player of the year” award was also developed by ‘The Rattle’ which previous winners include Jon Flannagan and Emre Can. It was Can who picked up his second successive award this year which reflects how the fans feel about the German midfielder, despite his turbulent season and reported on going contract negotiations.
Despite the humour and painted trainer, it must be a thoroughly rewarding experience as a footballer to receive an award from the heart of the fans. Long may it continue.
Ross Chandley
