2 weeks Ago By Robin Mumford
Legendary Liverpool winger John Barnes has gone viral after roasting Michael Owen on live TV during a segment about Real Madrid. The moment came hot on the heels of Trent Alexander-Arnold’s last-gasp winner at the King Power Stadium on Sunday, as the Reds edged past Leicester City 1-0, moving them within just three points of clinching their second Premier League title in five years. Trent's euphoric celebration - ripping off his shirt and running to an undulating away end - refuelled speculation about whether the world-class right-back might reconsider his rumoured move to the Spanish capital.
So, who better to weigh in than two ex-Reds with history involving Los Blancos? Both Barnes and Owen were once courted by Real Madrid . One stood firm, keeping his heart in Merseyside. The other chased the Galactico dream.
When asked about it, Barnes didn’t miss a beat, and his response reminded the Anfield faithful of why he's so adored in England's north-west. The 25 greatest players in Liverpool history have been named, including Steven Gerrard, Kenny Dalglish, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah. John Barnes Burns Michael Owen on Live TV The topic presented to Owen and Barnes in the immediate aftermath of Liverpool's victory over the Easter weekend was that of how the allure of Real Madrid is a difficult one to turn down.
The latter was quick to remind the panel of his loyalty, all while also taking a jab at Owen, who left Anfield in 2004 after winning a Ballon d'Or three years prior. Owen also looked bemused to realise he wasn't the only one in the studio who was wanted by the Bernabeu outfit. Barnes said (watch below) : "Well.
.. well, there was an opportunity for a Liverpool player to go to Real Madrid and wear the white shirt, but he didn't.
So some of us can resist it." At the height of his powers in the late 1980s while playing for Liverpool, Barnes was approached by Real Madrid but chose to stay loyal to the Reds. He has spoken time again in interviews about being flattered by the interest but never seriously considering leaving Liverpool, where he felt settled and appreciated.
His decision added to his legendary status among Liverpool fans, especially when compared to other high-profile players who made the move abroad. "Hence why Barnes is a Liverpool legend and Owen isn't..
." one X user said in reaction to Barnes' jab at Owen. Another remarked: "One is a Liverpool legend, the other cries he’s not welcome at Anfield.
".
