Last updated at 20:56, Thursday, 18 February 2010

IT WAS Bill Shankly, former Workington Reds manager and then boss at Liverpool, who famously said: “Aim for the sky and you’ll reach the ceiling. Aim for the ceiling and you’ll stay on the floor.”

In the 56 years since Shankly left Borough Park, most of Reds’ time has been spent avoiding further drops into football’s basement.

Now, however, there’s reason to aim high again.

Tomorrow’s FA Trophy tie against Stevenage Borough is Reds’ biggest game for decades; a win would put them just a step away from a Wembley final appearance.

For die-hard fans and armchair followers alike, it’s a rare chance to taste glory.

In the context of past seasons, Wembley is a truly mind-boggling prospect. Fingers crossed.

But another reason to cheer Reds came this week with an announcement that the club plans to build a £1.25 million two-tier replacement for the old two-tier stand, replacing the old Main Stand.

It may be hard to achieve, but there’s no denying the ambition behind the project.

We were among those who questioned Reds’ decision not to unite behind plans for a single sports stadium, but we commend the club for the speed with which it has responded to that scheme’s demise with its own vision.

It is a clear signal that Reds are looking to improve both on and off the field.

And, as Shankly knew, there’s nothing wrong with aiming for the sky.

First published at 19:30, Thursday, 18 February 2010
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk