Every club has a symbol. An emblem with historical significance. The badge on the shirt that is worn upon the heart. And for Liverpool FC, it may soon become an official trademark.

Liverpool’s Liver Bird

The owners of Liverpool Football Club have applied to register the Liver Bird, the symbol of Liverpool, as a trademark. The club say it’s a necessary move to protect counterfeiters making money from fake football shirts and have applied to the UK Intellectual Property Office to register the image for £450. But Liverpool City Council said the club had “no right” to claim the bird as its own. Deputy council leader Flo Clucas said the council was taking legal advice over the trademark application. “I have some very real concerns over it,” she said.

“They do already have their crest trademarked, but they have no right of ownership to claim the bird, or any version of the bird, as their own. The Liver Bird, not only does it appear on the Royal Charter for the council, but it is also used by local businesses and schools. It belongs to the city and nobody has a right to claim it exclusively as the own. It’s a symbol for the city.”

Bristol Rovers Pirate

Featuring the pirate on their badge, League 1 side Bristol Rovers have released numerous items of merchandise to celebrate the club’s 125 year milestone. The special edition 125th anniversary shirt was worn against Swindon Town on Saturday. Coloured black and yellow, it mirrors the kit the side wore back in 1883 when the club was formed.

We reported previously that there was a possibility that AIG would end its sponsorship deal with Manchester United due to its recent takeover. Further rumours are floating around the internet this week suggesting Saudi Telecom will replace AIG and become the new sponsors of Man United. The deal is expected to be very valuable both financially and for exposure in the Middle East.

If this deal is confirmed, footballshirtculture.com will be the place to hear about it.

By James Bailey