England remembered the legendary Sven-Goran Eriksson before their first match on home turf following the former Three Lions manager’s death.
The Swedish tactician, who took the helm as England’s first foreign boss, oversaw three big tournaments during his time. Sven passed away last month at the age of 76 after a battle with terminal cancer diagnosed earlier this year.
Wembley saw a poignant moment as England players marked a minute’s silence for the beloved coach before kicking off against Finland in the UEFA Nations League.
READ MORE: England fans slam Lee Carsley for ‘making it about himself’ during anthem
READ MORE: Harry Kane’s England shirt has hidden detail that fans won’t see against Finland
Join the Daily Star’s WhatsApp for the sexiest headlines, showbiz gossip and lots more
The Daily Star is now on WhatsApp and we want you to join us!
Through the app, we’ll send you the sassiest showbiz stories, some naught headline and a seismic smattering of aliens…along with the latest breaking news of course.
To join our community, all you have to do to join is click on this link, select ‘Join Chat’ and you’re in!
No one will be able to see who has sign up and no one can send messages except for the Daily Star team. We also treat our community members to competitions, special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners.
If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose Exit group. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.
The emotional tribute followed England’s official X account posting a touching video homage to the ex-Man City and Lazio gaffer prior to the game.
With the words “Sven-Goran Eriksson, 1948-2024,” emblazoned across it, the nearly two-minute footage relives Eriksson’s highlight reel while he led England, all narrated by Sven himself, reports the Express.
What do you think of the tribute? Let us know in the comments section
(Image: The FA via Getty Images)
The video captures unforgettable moments, from the iconic 5-1 thrashing of Germany in Munich to David Beckham’s legendary free-kick that sent England sailing into the 2022 World Cup.
The football world mourns for Sven, a deeply adored icon of English football, yet the strategic mastermind had a heartfelt request for his fans don’t harbour sadness over his demise.
His parting words from a documentary titled after him were: “I had a good life. I think we are all scared of the day when we die, but life is about death as well.”
(Image: Getty Images)
“You have to learn to accept it for what it is. Hopefully at the end people will say, yeah, he was a good man, but everyone will not say that.”
“I hope you will remember me as a positive guy trying to do everything he could do. Don’t be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything, coaches, players, the crowds, it’s been fantastic. Take care of yourself and take care of your life. And live it. Bye.”