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Staunton missed the start of the
90/91 season, but he came into the side for a League Cup tie against Wigan,
scoring a hat-trick in the second leg, which was played at Anfield although
it was technically the away tie. Staunton then played in a variety of roles
in Liverpool's 1990 Championship winning side, usually at full-back, but
also moving into midfield on occasions.
Staunton lost his place again at
the beginning of the 1990/91 season, but he forced his way back into the
side. However, as Dalglish came under pressure from sections of the Liverpool
support, Staunton was one of the players who came under most criticism.
Although good at breaking down the flanks, his crossing was not up to standard,
while Dalglish was often playing the youngster in midfield where he did
not seem to have the necessary skill. However, once Souness took over as
manager, Staunton continued to be a regular selection for the side.
In the summer of 1991 Staunton was
one of a number of players cleared out by Souness. Although some were surprised
to see a young player released, many felt that getting over a million for
a player they felt was not good enough was a good deal. Staunton continued
to flourish at his new club Aston Villa and he continued to be a regular
in the Republic of Ireland side, appearing in several major finals. Later,
as both Liverpool and Aston Villa moved to 3-5-2 systems and Roy Evans
replaced Souness as Liverpool manager, Staunton became the subject of frequent
transfer speculation, with Liverpool admitting they had tried to bring
the Irishman back to Anfield. However, Staunton has been reluctant to return
and he has added to his versatilty recently for Villa by playing on the
left of Villa's three man defence.
98 sees Staunton playing in the central
of defence with Carragher. Yet another player who is in the wrong position.
BORN: Drogheda 19.1.1969.
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