Footballs not a matter of life and death, its about giving fans mobile ticketing, cash free concessions, shopping at the team store, video streaming and new digital immersive experiences.

Bill Shankley didnt say this. But if were alive today, he might. Why? Because Liverpool FC has just hired Verizon Business and Extreme Networks to install next-gen connectivity solutions at its Anfield Stadium.

The refit will include Extreme Wi-Fi 6 access points that give fans access to high speed and low latency digital experiences such as watching HD video and shopping from the seat. As part of the partnership, Liverpool FC will also leverage get real-time insights into data, including fan foot traffic, app usage across the stadium and popular concessions.

The digitisation of big sporting arenas is certainly a growth area. The Anfield deal is just the latest win for Extreme and Verizon Business, which have history of joint deployments for organizations such as the NHL, NASCAR and the NFL.

Massimo Peselli, CRO of global enterprise & public Sector, Verizon Business, said: “We’re excited to be joining forces with Extreme to transform Anfield into a place where the digital experience in-stadium is best in class. As we continue to bring our expertise to major venues around the globe, we’re making innovative fan experiences a reality, shortening queue times, streamlining matchday operations and more.”