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Rob Jones filled the right back spot at Anfield with distinction and it was such a real shame that injury cut short his playing days.

Rob was a red since childhood as his grandfather, Bill Jones, had been on Liverpool's books from 1946-1954, playing 277 games. He was at 4th division Crewe when Tom Saunders, Liverpool's chief scout came to watch their right-back, manager Dario Gradi had recommended to Graeme Souness.

The player in question wasn't very impressive but when left-back Rob Jones was moved to the right in the second half, Saunders and Souness looked at each other and saw this speedy player as the solution to their problem. Only 48 hours later Jones was facing Ryan Giggs at Old Trafford and marked him out of the game - it was such a brilliant debut.

Amazingly only five months after playing in the 4th division he made his England debut versus France at Wembley. It was a dream come true, he won the FA cup in the spring and was looking forward to playing for England in the 1992 European championship. But unfortunately it didn't work out as planned. Shin splints caused him to miss the competition and he had to undergo surgery only 6 games into the following season. He was only out for six weeks and recaptured his place in the starting line-up on his return.

Rob Jones was undoubtedly Liverpool's most exciting full-back for years, using his skill and speed to cause trouble in opposing ranks. He remained in the starting 11 until 1996 when injuries stopped his career again.

Jason McAteer was now playing as right-wing back, Evans switching Jones to the left where he was equally able to perform. Only three days after suffering defeat at the hands of Manchester United in the FA cup final, he received the worst news possible. He had been suffering from back pains and was now advised to rest from football for at least six months otherwise he could run the risk of ending up in a wheel-chair. He returned at the end of the 1996-97 season and was in and out of the side in 1997/98 until February when he finally seemed to have recaptured his place.

Again injuries prevented him from taking further part and this time for good. He had a large swelling in his left knee and had to undergo 3 major operations to try to fix the problem. By then Houllier had ruled him out his future plans and Jones was on his way out.

He tried to train with West Ham to get a contract there when Harry Redknapp gave him a lifeline but it was clear he was no longer able to play. He played one and a half game before the knee started to swell up again. His glorious career finished at only 27.

Other Clubs:
Crewe, West Ham