Iran gives ex-football boss a hero's welcome

A SOUTHPORT man who led Iranian football club Persepolis to four league titles has been invited back to the country in recognition of his achievements.

Alan Rogers travelled to Tehran to a special football ceremony on Monday with Frank O'Farrell, the ex-Manchester United and Leicester boss who also managed the Iranian national team.

Alan coached Persepolis between 1969 and 1976 and, as well as his league titles, he led the team to two national cups, an International Friendship Cup, an unbeaten Middle East tour and victories against Chelsea, Cruzeiro and Brazilian side, Sao Paulo - recent conquerors of Liverpool in the World Club Championship.

It'll be his first time back in the country since he left.

Alan said: "I'd love to go back to see what it's all about now.