Sven-Goran Eriksson expressed profound gratitude for realizing a lifelong aspiration as he took charge of Liverpool Legends in a charity match against Ajax Legends at Anfield on Saturday.
The 76-year-old, a former England manager, had disclosed in January his battle with pancreatic cancer, stating he had “best case a year” to live. Despite the challenges, Eriksson, known for his stints at clubs like Manchester City and Lazio, shared his enduring affection for Liverpool and his longstanding desire to manage the club.
His cherished dream unfolded on Saturday, with Eriksson joining former Liverpool stars Ian Rush, John Barnes, and John Aldridge in the home dugout. Together, they guided the team to a 4-2 victory.
Reflecting on the emotional experience, Eriksson revealed shedding tears before kick-off as he received a heartfelt standing ovation from the crowd at Anfield. The rendition of the Liverpool anthem, “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” further added to the poignant moment shared with fans.
“That will be a huge memory in life,” said Eriksson. “Absolutely beautiful.
“To sit on the bench for Liverpool, that’s been my dream my whole life. Now it happened, and it was a beautiful day in all meanings.
“The crowd, the game, the players, everything, fantastic, and thank you to Liverpool for giving me this opportunity, to invite me to such an important game – it’s not points but the importance of the game is incredible.
“It was full of emotions, tears coming. It’s been my dream club all my life — even when I had England, I also supported Liverpool, but I couldn’t say it at that time.
“It’s a good finish, to finish with Liverpool, it can’t be much better than that,” added Eriksson, who guided England to the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cups.
Liverpool were 2-0 down at half-time on Saturday before Kop-end goals from Gregory Vignal, Djibril Cisse, Nabil El Zhar and Fernando Torres turned the match in their favour.
The Reds were captained by Steven Gerrard, who played under Eriksson for England. “He (Gerrard) is the boss out there –- of course (he still has it)!” said Eriksson.
(AFP)
