Ii think the 1874 is important - we have a heritage and a colourful history that we should be proud of. To me (and admittedly, it could be only me) the 1874 represents that glorious past.I'm not sold on just the lion....and a final thought on the star. I appreciate the original intent, however it's going to look a bit daft when we win it again in a few years and have the official star above and another one in the badge.
with all this. In my opinion I’d ditch the star until we actually play in the competition again. It’s incorporation within the badge is all a bit too Lion King for my liking. It has no place within the badge.
I think the Italians get awarded a star for ten domestic league championships, not European Cup wins.
As mentioned earlier, keep a star for European competition. We could of course put 7 stars when we play the FA Cup, 5 for the League Cup etc....
Had a play around with a mix of old shield, new lion and lettering (font is Baskerville Old Face).