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For generations, Liverpool supporters have watched former Reds earn recognition far beyond the pitch, with several ex-players and managers receiving royal honours for their contributions to football and the wider community.
The Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) is one of the United Kingdom’s most recognisable honours, awarded to individuals who have delivered outstanding service, achievement, or impact in their field. In footballing terms, it often acknowledges not just trophies and caps, but also the role players have had in inspiring others and elevating the sport’s profile.
Some notable ex-Liverpool players to win the award include Kenny Dalglish in 1985, Steven Gerrard in 2007, and Jordan Henderson in 2021, while Graeme Souness won a CBE (Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire) in 2024.
This week, another former Liverpool defender has joined that distinguished group. England and Manchester City captain Alex Greenwood has been awarded an MBE during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle, after being named in the New Year Honours list for her services to football. The 32-year-old received the honour from the Prince of Wales on Wednesday.
Greenwood, born in Bootle, spent a spell at Liverpool earlier in her career from 2016-2018, making 44 appearances before the club released her.
Now captain of Manchester City, Greenwood has led her side to the top of the Women’s Super League standings this season.
On the international stage, she has earned 107 caps for England, reaching the century mark during the Lionesses’ triumphant Euro 2025 campaign in Switzerland, a landmark summer that firmly cemented women’s football at the heart of the national sporting conversation.
Her MBE recognises not only those on-field achievements, but also her role in transforming perceptions of the women’s game alongside several of her England teammates, such as Ella Toone and Keira Walsh, who have also been honoured.
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