Ex-Motherwell and Liverpool star Bobby Graham dies aged 80 as tributes pour in

MOTHERWELL Hall of Famer Bobby Graham has tragically passed away at the age of 80.

The Scottish forward spent four years at Motherwell and four years at Hamilton Accies after a successful spell down south with Liverpool and Coventry City, along with a short stint on loan at Tranmere Rovers in 1973.

3 Bobby Graham (right) with Motherwell team-mates Willie Pettigrew and Ian Taylor Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd

3 Bobby Graham at Liverpool in 1968 Credit: Getty

3 Bobby Graham playing for Liverpool against Tottenham in 1969 Credit: Getty

Graham began his career at Liverpool under Bill Shankly and scored on his full debut for the club in a 6-1 win over KR Reykjavik in a European Cup preliminary round tie.

He famously scored a hat-trick in his first league game for the club, in a September 1964 5-1 win over Aston Villa two months before his 20th birthday

Graham went on to make over 100 appearances for the Merseyside club and spent two years at Coventry before heading back up to Scotland in 1973.

Graham was born in Motherwell and spent eight successful years in Lanarkshire with the Well and Accies.

He scored 48 times for the Fir Park side and was inducted into their Hall of Fame in 2022.

A statement from the North Lanarkshire club read: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Motherwell FC Hall of Famer Bobby Graham.

"Born in Motherwell, his hugely exciting and successful career started with Liverpool, where he was guided under the late, great Billy Shankly.

"Spending eight years at Liverpool and playing over 100 games for the Reds, Graham moved to Coventry City in 1972.

"The following year he would return to his hometown to represent his beloved claret and amber.

"Finishing as top goalscorer in his maiden season, his second campaign would see him build a formidable partnership with new signing Willie Pettigrew.

"Across four seasons, he would play over 180 games for the Steelmen, scoring 48 times.A firm fan favourite and club legend, he was inducted into the MFC Hall of Fame in November 2022.

"Graham passes away aged 80, and the thoughts of everyone at Motherwell Football Club are firmly with his family and friends at this sad time.

"RIP, Bobby."

Reacting to the sad news on social media , one Motherwell fan wrote: "Gutted 🧡 RIP Bobby ❤️🧡"

Another said: "One of my heroes growing up 😪"

A third added: "Terribly sad news , RIP."

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