Liverpool legend Peter Cormack dies aged 78 as tributes pour in from football world

Former Liverpool midfield maestro Peter Cormack has passed away at the age of 78, leaving behind a legacy adorned with silverware.

During his tenure at Liverpool from 1972 to 1976, the Scottish powerhouse was instrumental in the club’s conquest of two First Division titles, an UEFA Cup, and an FA Cup. Signed by the legendary Bill Shankly, Cormack became an integral figure in a golden period for the Reds, also playing under Bob Paisley’s stewardship.

Cormack’s transfer from Nottingham Forest in 1972 proved pivotal as he played a significant role in Liverpool clinching the First Division title and UEFA Cup double in his debut season. He was also a part of the squad that secured another league title in the 1975/76 season and lifted the FA Cup in the 1973/74 campaign.

With a tally of 178 appearances and 26 goals for Liverpool, Cormack’s contribution to the club’s history is undeniable. “The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool FC are with Peter’s family and friends at this very sad and difficult time,” read a heartfelt statement from the club.

His son Peter disclosed in 2020 that Cormack had been courageously battling dementia.

Cormack’s football journey began at Hibernian, where he spent seven years before his move to Forest in 1970. He represented Scotland nine times and later donned the jerseys of Bristol City, returning to Hibs and concluding his playing days at Partick Thistle.

Hibernian FC paid tribute, stating: “Everyone at Hibernian FC is deeply saddened by the passing of former Hibee Peter Cormack at the age of 78. Rest in peace, Peter.”

Post-retirement, Cormack ventured into management, leading Partick Thistle for four years and subsequently taking the reins at Anorthosis in Cyprus, the Botswana national team, Cowdenbeath, and Greenock Morton, after his playing career was cut short by a knee cartilage injury.

He was held in high esteem at Liverpool, where the iconic manager Shankly hailed him as “the last piece of the jigsaw”.

Recalling his transfer to Anfield, Cormack shared with the Liverpool Echo in 2013: “When I got the call from Bill Shankly I would have willingly run all the way from Nottingham to Anfield to meet him.

“That July morning in 1972 I sat nervously, twitching like a wet behind the ears teenager about to set out on his football career, nothing like the battle hardened pro with 10 years first team experience and several Scotland caps that I was.”