VETERAN footballer Tommy Smith is auctioning off all the medals from his glittering career with Liverpool FC.

The prized collection is part of a sporting memorabilia sale at Bonhams in Chester next Wednesday (February 22).

The tough-tackling Smith, who was known as the Anfield Iron, is parting company with medals, shirts, plaques, tankards, silver salvers, glassware and signed photographers from his trophy-laden career.

There are 75 lots in total which are expected to generate in the region of £120,000.

Smith, 66, said: “I had a wonderful career but the memories I’ve got are more important to me than the medals and the shirts. I’m getting old and the money is of more use to me now than the medals. This is about me putting my family first.”

Smith signed for Liverpool as a schoolboy in 1960 and went on to make 638 appearances up to 1978, winning four league titles, two FA Cups, two UEFA Cups and the European Cup.

Other items in next week’s sale include an Argentina shirt worn by the great Diego Maradona in his final international appearance in 1994. It is expected to fetch £8,000-£10,000.

There are also 52 lots consigned by Alex Best, wife of the late George Best.

For more information about the auction on February 22 or to request a catalogue contact Bonhams on 01244 313 936 or visit www.bonhams.com.