Livingston skipper Liam Fox keen to win title to repay fan’s loyalty

Feb 11 2010 by Eric MacKinnon, West Lothian Courier

LIAM FOX is determined to get his hands on the Third Division trophy this season and help banish the painful memories of the recent past for Livi supporters.

Livingston almost slipped into liquidation last summer before an eleventh-hour reprieve arrived in the form of a new consortium.

But their joy was short-lived as they were then relegated two leagues to the Third Division and skipper Fox admits a championship win would be just rewards to the loyal supporters.

“Winning the title would be a fitting payback for the fans who have been through a lot,” said Fox.

“The club have had their troubles which are well documented and, hopfully, we can win the league for the supporters.

“It would be great as well if the fans could really get behind us and give us a real boost between now and the end of the season.

“I understand they pay their money and are entitled to their views but the players do appreciate their support and it means a lot to us.”

The Lions are currently sitting on top of the table but Fox insists they face a battle to be crowned champs.

The Livingston captain helped the West Lothian club edge four points clear at the top of the pile with a 2-0 win over Albion Rovers at Cliftonhill on Tuesday night but he reckons his side have much work to do to get their hands on the Third Division trophy.

East Stirlingshire are hot on Livi’s heels but Fox believes both sides will drop points between now and the end of the season.

“I think all the games will be crucial from now on but, as long as we look after ourselves, I’m sure we won’t be far away,” began Fox.

“It might come down to the final game of the season against East Stirling – I guess we’ll have to wait and see.

“There is still a long way to go and I’m sure points will be dropped by every team between now and the end of the season.

“If we keep winning, then I’m sure we’ll be there or thereabouts come May and, hopefully, we’ll win the league.

“It is very different to the end of last season, when everyone thought it was over for the club and I, like the rest of the players, thought I’d be out of a job.

“Fortunately, the new consortium took over and they have done a fantastic job.”

The 26-year-old was appointed Livi skipper by manager Gary Bollan and he admits it was a big honour to be asked to lead the Lions.

“It is a huge privilege for anyone to be captain and I’m no different,” he explained.

“James McPake was skipper before he left and then it was Chris Innes, who also moved on, so it was definitely a big honour to be asked.

“I don’t think it has changed me much though as I’m not a big ranter and raver. Everyone has different ways of doing things.

“Also, playing week in, week out with guys like Roddy McKenzie, Danny Griffin and Robbie Winters means I’m learning things from them all the time.

“Being appointed captain came out of the blue for me.

“I’d done it a couple of times under Roberto Landi and also under Mark Proctor, but it was only on the odd occasion.

“Then John Murphy made me captain at the start of the season and when the gaffer came in, he kept me in that role. It is a fantastic job but I think all of our players have to take a bit of responsibilty.”

After losing two points following an injury-time leveller away to Forfar on Saturday, Livingston returned to winning ways in midweek with their first win in Coatbridge of the season.

“We were delighted to get the win against Albion Rovers this week, especially after losing such a late goal on Saturday,” confessed Fox, who was part of the side which drew 2-2 at Station Park at the weekend.

“That was a big blow to the boys and we had already lost twice at Rovers at the start of the season. But we managed to grind out a result this time which has hopefully put that hoodoo to rest.

“Rovers defended well and we didn’t have many chances, but we regrouped at half-time and came out strongly.”

So far this season the midfield maverick has chipped in with nine goals which amounts to his best-ever return but he insists he’s more interested in picking up points than goals.

He added: “This has been my best season for goals and while it is always nice to score it is more important that the team is doing well.

“We have actually spread the goals around the team this season quite well, so that’s been a real bonus for us.”