Liverpool fans were given an announcement over a managerial decision on Tuesday morning even as they wait to see who would succeed Jürgen Klopp.
Last month, former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson publicly notified the world that he has a terminal illness. In doing so, Eriksson also reiterated his lifelong support of Liverpool.
After the Swede’s fandom became public knowledge, a campaign was started to allow him to manage the upcoming Liverpool Legends game against Ajax at Anfield. Today, Liverpool announced that Eriksson would indeed take charge of the team next month.
“We are delighted to confirm Sven-Goran Eriksson will be part of the LFC Legends management team for the game against Ajax Legends at Anfield,” wrote the Reds’ official Instagram account.
One of those to react was former Liverpool forward Luis Garcia, who has played in Legends’ games in the past. “Love it,” wrote the Spaniard, alongside a love heart emoji and a pair of praising hands.
This is a brilliant piece of news on what will be an emotional occasion for Eriksson.
The 76-year-old managed 17 different teams during a glittering 42-year career in management. But although he was possibly close when Rafa Benitez left in 2010, he never led his beloved Liverpool.
After hundreds of games and titles collected in Sweden, Portugal and Italy, the final team Sven takes charge of will be one wearing the famous red running out at Anfield. Poignant.
With John Aldridge, John Barnes and Ian Rush also on the coaching staff, it remains to be seen exactly what role Eriksson will undertake on the day.
But it seems likely that the three Liverpool legends will let the older man have his day on the touchline.
A competitive fixture it may not be, but that hardly matters. The Legends’ games are always full houses at Anfield and that won’t be any different on March 23rd either.
With the new Anfield Road stand now fully open, it will be an even bigger crowd than usual. A perfect send off for Sven.
For those involved, it will also give them a chance to be managed by an iconic coach on his final bow. Eriksson will go down as a legend of the game.
Time will tell whether Garcia himself will be involved, although it would seem likely that he will be. With other famous faces on show from the glorious recent past of Liverpool and Ajax, it’s all set to be a wonderful day at Anfield.
