Former England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson is set to fulfil a childhood dream as he joins Liverpool FC’s management team for a Reds’ Legends charity match.
The retired 76-year-old, who had an extensive career in management spanning 42 years, announced in January that he had been diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer, and has ‘around a year to live’.
The Swede has managed all over the world; outside of the England job. He’s been in charge of such clubs as Manchester City, Leicester City, Benfica, Roma, Lazio, and both the Mexican and Philippines national teams.
But despite a storied career that only came to a close in 2019, he has one dream still unfulfilled.
Sven, in his post-announcement interview, spoke of his affection for Liverpool. He said: “My father is a Liverpool supporter, and I’m a Liverpool supporter as well.
“I always wished to be the manager of Liverpool, and that will not happen, but I’m still a Liverpool supporter.”
Upon hearing this, in a show of great respect, Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp announced that Sven was free to come to the club and manage for a day.
He said: “Sven, you are invited. From the bottom of all our hearts. You can have my office and everything, you can lead a session if you want.”
And now, Jurgen and Liverpool have followed through on their promise, with Sven set to take the helm in front of the famous Anfield crowd.
The game will take place on March 23 at Anfield, against a team of Ajax legends.
Liverpool’s squad is set to include former players such as fan favourite Martin Skrtel, 2005 Champions League Final hero Jerzy Dudek, and former Liverpool and Ajax player Ryan Babel, who is set to feature for both sides in the match.
Featured image (c) Wikimedia Commons
