Ex-England boss Sven-Goran Eriksson stated it was “completely stunning” to fulfil his dream of managing Liverpool.
The 76-year-old helped lead a Liverpool Legends workforce which beat an Ajax Legends aspect 4-2 at Anfield on Saturday.
Swede Eriksson, who’s a lifelong Liverpool fan, disclosed his terminal cancer diagnosis in January.
“That can be an enormous reminiscence in life,” stated Eriksson, who obtained a standing ovation when he emerged from the tunnel simply earlier than the groups.
“Completely stunning.”
There was a rendition of You will By no means Stroll Alone earlier than kick-off and Eriksson was within the Reds dugout together with a administration workforce of former Liverpool greats Ian Rush, John Barnes and John Aldridge.
A Liverpool workforce together with former captain Steven Gerrard got here again from 2-0 to win, with Gregory Vignal, Nabil El Zhar, Djibril Cisse and Fernando Torres scoring.
Eriksson and the gamers have been additionally applauded after they walked across the pitch following the ultimate whistle.
“To sit down on the bench for Liverpool, that is been my dream my entire life. Now it occurred, and it was a ravishing day in all meanings,” added the Swede.
“The group, the sport, the gamers, every little thing, implausible, and thanks to Liverpool for giving me this chance, to ask me for such an vital recreation – it isn’t factors, however the significance of the sport is unimaginable.
“It was filled with feelings, tears coming. It has been my dream membership all my life – even once I had England, I additionally supported Liverpool, however I could not say it at the moment.
“It is a good end, to complete with Liverpool, it may possibly’t be a lot better than that.”
Eriksson was the primary international coach to handle England, taking on in 2001 earlier than guiding the aspect to the quarter-finals of the 2002 and 2006 World Cups, in addition to the final eight of the 2004 European Championships throughout his five-year tenure.
He gained the Uefa Cup with Gothenburg and the European Cup Winners’ Cup with Lazio, who he additionally led to the Serie A title throughout a protracted and profitable administration profession, which included spells at Manchester Metropolis and Leicester Metropolis.
Eriksson additionally met present Liverpool supervisor Jurgen Klopp earlier than the sport.
“Sven being right here was very particular,” stated Gerrard, who performed for England beneath Eriksson.
“As quickly as I knew he was going to be the gaffer right this moment, I could not wait to come back and play for him yet one more time.”