Bruce Grobbelaar arguably the best goalkeeper in Liverpool FC's illustrious history with a fascinating story to tell and a colourful personality to match
Bruce was born in South Africa and brought up in Zimbabwe thereafter leaving to play first in Africa and then in the North American Soccer League for Vancouver Whitecaps. They lent him to play for Crewe Alexandra in 1980 where he quickly came to the notice of Liverpool who followed him back to Canada and signed him as cover for Ray Clemence.
However, after Bruce had played just three reserve games for Liverpool, Clemence was transferred to Spurs and he took over, becoming a colourful and invaluable member of the team.
Increasing violence on the terraces and especially the events of Brussels in 1985, very nearly led him to give up playing until he realised it would be simply surrendering to the mindless violence of hooligans. Hillsborough followed in 1989 and Bruce was the first player to be aware of the Leppings Lane end troubles and was first to offer and call for assistance.
Bruce eventually moved to Southampton in 1994 and stayed until 1996.
After leaving Southampton, Bruce attended two FIFA Coca Cola Fertura One and Two in 1996 and 1998 respectively along with gaining invaluable coaching experience with the Zimbabwe national side. Bruce pursued a successful coaching career in South Africa before returning to Liverpool where he now lives.
Bruce was accused of match fixing but following a long drawn out court case he was declared not guilty. Throughout his friends in football stuck by this remarkable character. The attacks on his family, his credibility and his devotion to the game he loves have made him a stronger man and an asset.
Now a popular after dinner speaker, Bruce currently lives in Liverpool and is working as an ambassador for Liverpool FC and also hosts corporate clients on match days.
He published his autobiography “Life in the Jungle” which detailed his life, career and the story of trial when he was accused and acquitted of match fixing.
Bruce is in a very high in demand as an after dinner speaker travelling throughout the World, Australia, Scandinavia, United States, Middle East and is hugely popular.
CLUB HISTORY
Vancouver Whitecaps
1979 - 1980 Crewe Alexandra
1980 - 1993 Liverpool
1992 - 1993 Stoke City (Loan)
1993 - 1994 Liverpool
1994 - 1996 Southampton
1996 - 1997 Plymouth Argyle
1997 - 1997 Oxford United
1997 - 1998 Sheffield Wednesday
1998 - 1998 Oldham Athletic
COACHING
1999 - 1999 Seven Stars (Cape Town)
1999 - 2001 Super Sport United (Pretoria)
2001 - Hellenic City
2015 – 2016 Ottawa Fury (Canada)
HONOURS
Liverpool
Football League Division 1
Champions; 1981-82, 1982-83, 1983-84, 1985-86, 1987-88, 1989-90,
Runners Up; 1984-85, 1986-87
FA CUP
Winners; 1986, 1989, 1992
Runners Up; 1988
Football League Cup
Winners; 1981-82, 1982-83, 1983-84, 1989-90
Runners Up; 1986-87
European Cup
Winners; 1983-84
Runners Up; 1984-85