Graeme Souness, the former Liverpool and Newcastle manager, has taken on a new role as president of DEBRA UK, a charity supporting people living with Epidermolysis Bullosa (EB), often called "butterfly skin." The appointment came after he left Sky Sports at the end of the 2022/23 season.
Departure from Sky Sports
The 73-year-old Scot ended his lengthy association with the broadcaster, which had spanned nearly 20 years. He said he was eager to continue but that Sky ultimately felt it was time to part ways.
"It was a mutual decision. I mean, I was keen to stay another year," Souness told The Guardian in 2023. "They thought it would be a good idea that we called it a day - gave their reasons - and I accepted it and have zero complaints about Sky."
"I worked for them maybe 15 years solid, but it's more like 20 years. They've been great for me, gave me the weekends to look forward to, the buzz of live football."
New Role at DEBRA UK
In April this year, Souness was appointed president of DEBRA UK, taking over from former soldier and charity campaigner Simon Weston. He had been fundraising for the charity since 2019, after meeting 16-year-old Isla Grist, who has endured over 60 operations to treat EB.
The rare genetic condition causes the skin to blister and tear at the slightest touch. Souness appeared visibly moved during an emotional appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain last year, sitting alongside 13-year-old Jasmine Ritchie.
Speaking on his new role, Souness said: "It's a privilege to be able to pick up the mantle and continue the great work [Simon Weston] has led. EB isn't a nasty condition, it's horrendous. It's honestly one of the worst conditions."
"People shouldn't have to live with this pain. It's a level of pain and discomfort that is simply unimaginable and it needs to stop. In my new role as president of DEBRA UK, that is my mission, we must secure the treatments that are crucial if we are to stop the pain of EB. I know we can do this. I am up for the challenge!"
Career Highlights
Souness spent almost seven years as a Liverpool player, making more than 350 appearances between 1978 and 1984, winning 12 major trophies including five league titles and three European Cups. He later returned as manager in 1991, winning the FA Cup in 1992.
After leaving Liverpool, he took charge of Newcastle in what proved to be his final managerial role, spending two years at St James' Park before leaving in 2006, after which he became a regular fixture on Sky Sports.
