Sven-Goran Eriksson’s children have detailed how grateful they were for the blessings their father received after being diagnosed with terminal cancer.
The former England manager died in his sleep on Monday, aged 76, after a brave battle with the disease.
Eriksson’s death has sparked condolences across the football world. England’s official Twitter account said: “At this time our thoughts are with his family and friends. Rest in peace, Sven. You will be sorely missed.”
The Swede’s children, Lina Eriksson and Johan Eriksson, released a statement saying: “Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson passed away peacefully this morning at his home in Björkeförs, just outside Sunne. He has been fighting bravely against the illness for a long time, but it is not over yet.
“Our thoughts go to Sven-Golan’s father Sven, his girlfriend Janises and their son Alcides, his brother Lasse and his wife Jumnon, as well as all his good friends and acquaintances in Sweden and around the world.
“My father told us about his serious illness earlier this year and we received a fantastic response from friends and football fans all over Europe. He was invited to play for several football teams in England, Italy, Portugal and Sweden, who shared their love of football and of their father. It was unforgettable for him and for us. He expressed his gratitude and joy and said that such beautiful words are usually only uttered when someone passes away.
” – “I am so grateful to be alive to hear this song. It makes my heart beat twice and brings tears to my eyes. I have the best job in the world and I am looking forward to living a long, happy life every day. “It was wonderful,” he said.
“We want to thank him and witnessed great encounters with him, with football and with his friends. We thank him for these positive memories and for the support during his illness.
“We hope that Svenis will always be remembered as a good and positive person, both in public and at home with us, Lina and Jon Eriksson.”
Shortly before his death, a documentary about Eriksson’s life was broadcast on Amazon Prime and the Swede sent a moving final message to his fans.
“I’ve had a good life,” he said. “I think we all dread the day we die, but death is a part of life and we have to learn to accept it for what it is. I hope that in the end people will say, ‘Yes, he was a good man,’ but not everyone will say that.
“I want people to remember me as a positive person who tried to do the best he could. Don’t be sad, laugh. Thank you to all, coaches, players, spectators, it was great. Take care of yourself, take care of your life. And live it. Goodbye.
