Liverpool fans elected to continue their tradition of booing the national anthem ahead of their Community Shield meeting with Manchester City.
The Reds took on Pep Guardiola ’s men at the King Power Stadium on Saturday - Wembley being off-limits due to the Lionesses’ upcoming Euros final against Germany. Supporters who had made the trip to the East Midlands produced an electric atmosphere alongside their Sky Blues’ counterparts.
However, there was a contentious incident ahead of kick-off with Liverpool supporters loudly indicating their disdain for the national anthem with noticeable boos before following that up with the chant “F*** the Tories”.
Some will certainly be questioning why Reds’ fans hold such opposition for the tune but it appears that the booing can be traced back to the 1980s. Severe opposition to the Conservative government at the time, as well as the fallout following the Hillsborough tragedy, drove a wedge between the city and the rest of the country.
Those on Merseyside also feel like the current Government continue to bat-aside their welfare, with foodbanks outside of both Anfield and Goodison a regular feature. In fact, Liverpool supporters have further displayed their disdain for patriotism with a sign reading ‘Scouse Not English’ regularly seen at the home of Jurgen Klopp ’s men.
The German himself has previously given his thoughts on the booing, with supporters having done the same before the 2019 edition of the Community Shield - ironically against Man City.. He said: "I don’t think I'm the right person (to ask), I know a bit about the history but it’s not for me to judge.
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"I know the Liverpool supporters are respectful. If they give that sign the reason might be a bit in the past. But I've nothing else to say about that."
The booing and the chants against the Government have been a running theme for the Reds - supporters doing the same during their FA Cup final clash with Chelsea back in May.
Klopp’s men eventually ran out winners at Wembley Stadium with Greek defender Kostas Tsimikas firing home the winning penalty after a 0-0 draw following extra-time.
The Reds initially took the lead at the King Power - Trent-Alexander Arnold sweeping home the opener from range.
