Liverpool FC legends give their support to Michael Shields
Story by Marc Waddington
ANFIELD legends Kenny Dalglish and Jamie Carragher sent messages of support to jailed Liverpool fan Michael Shields.
The two stars signed memorabilia which will be presented to the 22-year-old, of Edge Hill, by the city's Lord Mayor Steve Rotheram.
Reds defender Carragher inscribed a copy of his autobiography with the message: "To Michael, you'll never walk alone."
Former player-manager Dalglish signed a teamsheet with the words: "Keep your spirits up, you will be home to see the Reds win the title."
Supporters of Michael have been campaigning for his freedom since his conviction for the attempted murder of a barman in Bulgaria following the Champions League final in 2005.
Cllr Rotheram said he hoped the gifts would bring Michael some cheer ahead of a judicial review of his case on December 4.
The government claims it does not have the authority to release him.
Cllr Rotheram said: "I hope they pay attention and the British and Bulgarian governments can find a form of wording which both sides are in agreement with to help secure his release."
Meanwhile, campaigners were today stepping up their efforts to win freedom for Michael.
Riverside MP Louise Ellman and Merseyside Euro MP Arlene McCarthy were hosting a Westminster press conference before Michael's mother Maria delivered a heartfelt appeal to Prime Minister Gordon Brown's wife Sarah.
Two coach-loads of Liverpool mothers were also protesting outside the justice ministry over Michael's treatment.
They are angry at justice secretary Jack Straw's ongoing claim he does not have the power to pardon and free the student because of the arrangement with Bulgarian authorities allowing him to finish his 10-year sentence in Britain.
Mrs Ellman said: "We shall leave no stone unturned in the fight for justice for Michael.
"We are as determined as ever."
marc.waddington@liverpoolecho.co.uk
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