Our turn to lend a hero a hand

On a certain night in October 1978 at Old Trafford in front of some 45000 screaming United fans, whilst much is celebrated about a certain couple of headers by a 20 year old Luther - it was the man described as “oozing class with his sideburns” who was the Hornets saviour. 0-1 down at half time in the cup tie, and suddenly those two legendary headers gave us the lead. But we had to keep hold of it.

Suddenly a United corner sailed in and an unmarked McQueen thundered a seemingly unstoppable header towards the top right-hand corner of the net, but with an outstretched hand and tips of his fingers, Andy Rankin, saved the day!

Sadly Andy had a very severe stroke about 18 months ago and has been recuperating in a special home. Covid has meant he has not even been able to see his wife and three children for the last year, something which so many fans can identify with in terms of the heartbreak of being apart from loved ones. The Former Players Club through Everton FC were put in touch and Luther was able to speak to “the man with the sideburns” himself and pass on good wishes from all the fans as well as his Golden team mates. They laughed about old times and Andy had lost none of that dry sense of humour that seems to go hand in glove with being a goalie.

The Former Players Club have pledged to raise funds to obtain some things to brighten Andy’s days and make him more comfortable where he is. Having spoken with his family and the medical team we have been given details of what he needs, so we hope you golden hearted hornets can help us make that happen. A special chair and and iPad will make his life easier.

We are also in the process of creating a special book of memories for Andy, into which we will put your own messages and stories. So please email info@Lutherbliss8.com any good wishes, recollections, memorabilia that we can include for Andy (don’t forget to add your name).