You were in the last Liverpool team to win the title in 1990. Do you think they’ll ever win it again?

I know it’s amazing, unbelievable, but they are getting very close. They just need two or three more quality players in key positions to win the league. They could do with full backs like José Bosingwa and Ashley Cole at Chelsea. They need defenders who can get forward and make things happen.

What are you up to now?

I’m a football consultant. I watch about 1,000 games a year live and on television and I recommend players to clubs. I was one of the first people to discover Samuel Eto’o — I offered him to every single club in the Premier League and no one wanted him. I’ve discovered lots of players — Bosingwa, Lauren, Nemanja Vidic, I’ve got a very long list.

Any players you missed out on?

I watched Kaká and I thought he’d never make it at the very top level. No one’s perfect, but I think my success rate is very high.

It’s Manchester United v Liverpool today. Who’s your money on?

A goalless draw. United will be happy with a point and Rafael Benítez always makes Liverpool nice and tight. Unless someone makes a mistake or scores a spectacular goal, it could be 0-0.

What’s the most expensive thing you’ve ever bought?

You have to remember that I stopped playing just before players started getting paid big money, so it’s nothing too extravagant. Maybe a £600 suit.

What’s your favourite book?

You don’t get much time for books when you’re watching 1,000 games a year.

Finally, Ronny, we can’t let you go without asking you about that miss against Aston Villa.

That’s football. In a way I’m happy I missed because it’s put me on the map. People remember it because I got to the top and I played for Liverpool. If I missed that goal playing in the fourth division no one would know who I am.

Interview by Kaveh Solhekol