Taylor and McAllister receive New Year honours

Former England manager Graham Taylor has been awarded an OBE (Order of the British Empire) in Britain's New Year honours list for his services to football in a long and eminent career.

Liverpool midfielder Gary McAllister was the only footballer among a large number of sports stars on the list announced Monday, and he receives an MBE (Member of the British Empire).

Despite a turbulent spell in charge of the national team from 1990-93, Taylor insisted that managing his country was the highlight of his career.

"Whatever people might say, when you become England manager, that has to be the highlight of my career. There have only been about 10 England managers, so when you accept the job it is a very, very proud moment," he said.

Taylor also managed Lincoln, Watford, Aston Villa and Wolves and admitted that he was shocked but proud to be on the list.

"I'm very honoured by this award, and like a lot of people, probably very surprised as well. I'm very pleased and I know how much it means to me and my family."

Now a director at Aston Villa, Taylor added: "I miss the dressing-room banter, but I chose to retire and in my profession you don't always have that chance, because you get booted out."

McAllister's MBE made it six medals in what has been a remarkable year.

The 37-year-old former Scotland captain was honoured for his role in helping Liverpool win five trophies in 2001, plus his 20 years as a respected professional.

"I've had great success this year, although Liverpool is the club where I have spent the least time in my career.

"But I feel like I have been here for years," he said.

The Scot was also keen to praise his manager at the club.

"I have to dedicate at least part of this award to Gerard Houllier. He gave me the chance to come to Liverpool at such an exciting time."

McAllister added: "How long can I keep going? I don't know. People tell me that at my age you can be going along nicely and suddenly the wheels fall off."