Sven-Goran Eriksson was a "lovely man
and Lazio won't forget him," Biancolcelesti President Claudio
Lotito said after the great Sweish coach who led them to their
historic second scudetto in 200 died of cancer at 76 Monday.
"He wasn't just the most successful coach in Lazio's history but
he was above all a man of huge integrity and a lovely and
gentlemanly person, who combined those gifts with a typical
Nordic aplomb.
"His courage in facing the illness that struck him was an
example and teaching for anyone who heard him.
"In the interviews he gave in the last months he succeeded in
infusing love fro life and football.
"I remember him at Rome's Stadio Olimpico, excited like a kid,
on his return to the capital, when we spoke at length: I was
struck by his serenity, and we gave each other a strong hug.
"I saw him walk towards the sideline, slowly going round the
stadium.
"All our Lazio people, as he passed by, shouted out phrases of
thanks and affection, an almost palpable emotion, with tears
streaming down their faces, and he responded to their chants
with the strength of his smile.
"I'd like to hug him again, to whisper in his ear that Lazio
will never forget him.
"I send emotional condolences to his family, football and the
world have lost a great man".
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