Sports
Liverpool saddened by demise of club legend, St John
Premier League champions, Liverpool have reacted sadly to the death of one of Anfield’s football legends, Ian St John.
The former Scotland international striker whose goal won Liverpool their first FA Cup in 1965 passed away at the age of 82 after a long illness.
The family confirmed his death via a statement which read: “It is with a heavy heart that we have to inform you that after a long illness we have lost a husband, father and grandfather.
“He passed away peacefully with his family at his bedside. We would like to thank all the staff at Arrowe Park Hospital for their hard work and dedication during these very difficult times.”
St John switched to the red side of Anfield from hometown team, Motherwell, in 1961 for a club-record £37,500 and played 425 games for the Anfield side, scoring 118 goals, during a decade of service.
“We are deeply saddened by the passing of a true Anfield legend, Ian St John. The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Ian’s family and friends at this sad and difficult time. Rest in peace, Ian St John 1938-2021,” Liverpool said in a statement released on Tuesday.
The statement added that “the thoughts of everybody at the club are with Ian’s family and friends at this sad and difficult time.”
Club manager, Jurgen Klopp also paid tribute to St John who coached Motherwell and Portsmouth during his managerial stint.
“I’m just so happy to have met him because the best thing you can learn from these legends is how easy it is to stay the person you are, even when you had the biggest success in the past.
“I feel really honoured to have met him and when I heard the news today, I was devastated. All my prayers go to his family and I know he is in a better place as well.
“I am really, really happy I had the opportunity to meet him,” Klopp’s statement read partly.
Liverpool and Scotlands left-back, Andy Robertson also paid tribute to his former countryman via a post on his Twitter account.
He said, “A man of warmth, humour, knowledge, wisdom and joy. Scotland and Liverpool has lost a true giant. My love goes to his family. Rest in peace Ian St John.”
RIP Ian St John. One of the greats. https://t.co/7t4ECi9ZLY
— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) March 2, 2021
So sad to hear of the passing of the Saint. He gave me one of my greatest childhood memories in him winning the FA Cup in ‘65.
RIP Ian, YNWA.— Phil Thompson (@Phil_Thompson4) March 2, 2021
St John’s demise comes about a week after Liverpool keeper, Alisson lost his father, Jose Becker. Recall that Jurgen Klopp’s mother, Elisabeth, also passed away about two weeks before Jose’s death. The Liverpool manager was unable to attend her funeral due to a German ban on travellers from England.
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