The story of Asian fans and Liverpool (From Asian Image)

The story of Asian fans and Liverpool

11:03am Friday 1st August 2008 in Sport By Asian Image reporter

A new book delves into the trials and tribulations of being a Liverpool fan.

Written by Mohammed Bhana The Asian Liverbird is the first of its kind to hit the shelves and includes interviews with past and present Liverpool legends.

As well as giving a vivid and personal account of being a Liverpool supporter the book blows the lid on many inconsistencies about Asians and football fans in general.

"I pitched the idea to the club and the rest, as they say, is history," says Mohammed who started supporting the club after watching them clinch the double in 1986.

"I went to the club and told them that I have an idea for a book that would help them connect with this great fan base. I have a pure football mind and the club has given me a great deal of creative control."

The book features interviews with Steven Gerrard, Xabi Alonso, Mark Lawrenson, Alan Hansen, John Barnes and includes a special message penned by Kenny Dalglish.

It also features a chapter written by Blackburn Rovers supporter and Editor of Asian Image Shuiab Khan.

"I have met both Alonso and Gerrard on a number of occasions. Both are certainly aware of the diverse fan base."

Alonso said: "It doesn't matter if you vote Conservative, Labour or if you sit in the Kop or in The Centenary stand."

Gerrard sees the likes of Asian fans as an integral part of the club. There is also a fan section: fans from Batley, Birmingham, London, Preston, Bradford and across the country tell their story.

The club has always been synonymous with Asian support and recent years have seen this fan base grow to new levels.

"Supporting the club is just something else - it's about being part of a family. The number of Liverpool fans amongst diverse communities range across gritty northern towns such as Batley in West Yorkshire to the more affluent areas in London. It's simply breathtaking.

"And on top of that, you cannot discount the effect second and third generation Asians have had on relatives in Asia and the Middle East, who are joining the trend of supporting Liverpool FC.

"Nowadays you hear about relatives in those countries wearing Liverpool tops and watching Liverpool games."

Mohammed also explains that the book is not just aimed at Asian supporters and fans from all backgrounds will enjoy reading about the experiences of Asian supporters.

"I'd love it if all fans read it. It's not just a book aimed specifically at the Asian community it's a pure football book.

"It would give me great pleasure if people from diverse backgrounds enjoyed reading the book and attended events - it is all about giving something back to the fans."

The Asian Liver Bird by Mohammed Bhana - an official Liverpool Football Club Publication will be available at: Tesco, WH Smith, Borders Book shops and many selected retail outlets.

Alternatively call 0845 143 0001 to reserve your copy. The offical launch of the book takes plkace at Anfield on August 14 with John Barnes and Phil Thompson who will be signing copies of the book.