David Beckham reveals Sven-Goran Eriksson's last words to him in emotional tribute
David Beckham has revealed Sven-Goran Eriksson's final words to him as he paid tribute to the late England manager.
Eriksson died on Monday morning at his home in Sweden surrounded by his family after a fight with pancreatic cancer.
His family issued a statement confirming the 76-year-old's passing and tributes flooded in from the footballing world.
Beckham, who Eriksson made captain of the Three Lions, took to Instagram to remember his former boss.
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He posted a recent clip of them walking together and in a wonderful caption, explained Eriksson finished their final ever exchange by simply telling him, "It will be ok".
Beckham wrote: "We laughed, we cried & we knew we were saying goodbye... "Sven thank you for always being the person you have always been, passionate, caring, calm and a true gentleman...
"I will be forever grateful for you making me your captain but I will forever hold these last memories of this day with you and your family... Thank you Sven and in your last words to me, 'It will be ok'."
Eriksson became England's first foreign manager in 2001 and went on to guide the team to two World Cup tournaments during the nation's 'Golden Generation', suffering defeats to Brazil and Portugal in the quarter finals.
Beckham was first named England captain by caretaker manager Peter Taylor back in 2000 for a friendly against Italy.
He retained the armband on a permanent basis upon Eriksson's arrival and the two shared iconic memories like the 5-1 thrashing of Germany and the last-gasp World Cup qualification against Greece.
England legend Wayne Rooney also sent a message after hearing the sad news about the man who gave him his international debut.
He said: "Rest in peace, Sven. A special man.
“Thanks for the memories and all your help and advice. Thoughts and prayers with all his family and friends.”
Eriksson also coached the likes of Manchester City, Leicester City, AS Roma, Fiorentina and Lazio, winning 18 trophies.
Topics: David Beckham, England, Sven-Goran Eriksson
Josh Lawless