SVEN-GORAN ERIKSSON has fulfilled a lifelong dream by coaching a Liverpool team at Anfield.
The former England boss, 76, revealed that he had been diagnosed with terminal cancer in January.
Eriksson heartbreakingly added that he had “at best” a year to live.
The Swede is a boyhood Liverpool fan, and shortly after his diagnosis was offered the opportunity of a lifetime to manage his beloved Reds.
He has this afternoon joined a star-studded coaching team including the likes of John Barnes, Ian Rush and John Aldridge for Liverpool Legend’s clash with Ajax.
Eriksson received an amazing standing ovation from fans as he was welcomed from the Anfield tunnel.
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The popular ex-boss also clapped the crowd as he savoured the emotional moment.
This afternoon’s game saw Eriksson reunite with Steven Gerrard.
The duo worked together for five years during Eriksson’s stint as England boss.
Gerrard, 43, was one of a number of Three Lions icons to send messages of support to their former manager.
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He said: “I just wanted to send you my best wishes, send you my love and support.
“I’ve been thinking about you a lot lately and I’m really looking forward to seeing you next week as you’re the gaffer at Anfield. It will be really special.
“I’m just trying to get the body in good condition so I can last the 90 minutes!”
Joe Cole, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Owen Hargreaves also sent amazing messages of support to Eriksson.
England boss Gareth Southgate last week revealed that Eriksson had been invited to Wembley for one of the upcoming friendlies.
The Three Lions play Brazil this evening, before hosting Belgium on Tuesday.
Fans will also have an opportunity to pay tribute to the late Terry Venables, who died aged 80 last November.
Southgate, 53, said: “Some plans around the game and definitely to acknowledge Terry.
“And we’ve also invited Sven to one of the games. We don’t know whether he can come but we hope that will happen as well.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
