AFC Liverpool make Merseyside bow

AFC Liverpool will play their first competitive match on Merseyside at Marine FC on Tuesday night.

The club has been formed by Liverpool FC fans looking for a cheaper alternative to Premier League football.

Unlike FC United, AFC Liverpool are not a protest club and have links with Liverpool FC, with the aim of being a 'little brother' to the Anfield club.

They have already received the backing of Kop hero Kenny Dalglish and current Reds manager Rafa Benitez.

In an e-mail to AFC Liverpool, Dalglish said: "It is a brilliant idea and I hope that it is a success for you all.

"You can't always judge your success with results on the pitch.

"Your greatest success could be bringing a part of Liverpool FC to many people's lives. All the very best!"

When AFC held trials for a places in their squad in May over 300 players turned up.

My message is just to wish them all the best, to score lots of goals and progress to another level. It will be fantastic for us Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez

Since their formation in May, the club, who will play at Prescott Cables ground, have played two friendly matches and have been granted access to Vodkat League Division One for next season.

Benitez also believes the fledgling non-league club are a good idea, telling LFC TV: "I think that with more people closer to our club, it's good.

"My message is just to wish them all the best, to score lots of goals and progress to another level. It will be fantastic for us."