Michael Robinson dead: Graeme Souness pays emotional tribute to former Liverpool teammate

Former Liverpool and Republic of Ireland striker Robinson has died at the age of 61

Souness counted Robinson as a close friend during their time together at Anfield (Sky Sports)

Graeme Souness has paid an emotional tribute to former Liverpool teammate Michael Robinson who has died aged 61.

Robinson, who the European Cup, Division One title and the League Cup in 1984 in his first – and only – full season with Liverpool, revealed in December 2018 he had been diagnosed with a malignant melanoma.

Souness counted Robinson as a close friend during his time at Anfield.

“He was a big pal of mine,” Souness said on Sky Sports. “I have so many fond memories of being in his company. If you were going for a night out Michael would always be the first one you’d invite. He was a charming man with great stories.

“I’m really sad for Chris and his kids. I know he’s been fighting this for a number of years now and it’s been difficult for him.”

Souness also revealed that he was planning on calling Robinson today only to now not have the chance.

“He was a close pal of mine and I’m sick for his family. It’s a sad day for me,” he added. “I’ve tried to ring him a couple of times over the last couple of weeks and Michael was a very emotional man and he wouldn’t pick up the phone to me any more.

“It was only last night I thought ‘I’m going to try and try until I get him’ and I was going to ring him today and now I don’t have the chance to speak to him.”

During a career which started with Preston, Robinson also played for Brighton, Manchester City, QPR and Osasuna. He scored four goals in 24 appearances for the Republic of Ireland.

After his spell with Osasuna, Robinson remained in Spain, going on to develop a formidable career as a broadcaster.