Jurgen Klopp and Jamie Carragher were amongst the past and present of Liverpool FC employees that paid a rich bout of tribute to the former manager of the Merseysiders, Gérard Houllier, as the Frenchman passed away on Monday at the age of 73.
Houllier was in charge of Liverpool FC from 1998 to 2004 and famously led the club to the cup-treble across the 2000-2001 season, cementing his name in the greatest managers of the Reds in the Premier League era. He stepped down as the gaffer after a six-year-long spell and was subsequently replaced by Rafa Benitez.
Klopp voiced praise for Houllier as the German termed the latter a ‘true’ Liverpool FC legend and noted his considerable influence on the game.
“It is really, really, really a sad day,” said Klopp, as quoted by Liverpoolfc.com.
“I didn’t know Gerard too well – I met him a couple of times, but in those few moments he created a relationship with me which was really special.
“He is a true Liverpool legend and he is a true coaching legend.
“He was really influential in the game. A great coach, but a human being who gave you a really warm feeling when you were around him. For all of us it is a big loss and a really sad day.”
Ex-Reds centre-back Jamie Carragher was joined by Steven Gerrard and Robbie Fowler as the legendary Liverpool FC trio paid tribute to Houllier for his role in shaping their respective careers at Anfield.
Absolutely devastated by the news about Gerard Houllier, I was in touch with him only last month to arrange him coming to Liverpool. Loved that man to bits, he changed me as a person & as a player & got @LFC back winning trophies. RIP Boss. 💔
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) December 14, 2020
Goodnight Boss… Gave us dreams and songs to sing 😢#YNWA pic.twitter.com/qNG7GcpUdZ
— Robbie Fowler (@Robbie9Fowler) December 14, 2020
Steven Gerrard on Instagram 🥺
“I will never forget what this man did for me and my career.
Rest in peace boss.” ❤️ pic.twitter.com/yXOJdp0uv5
— Steven Gerrard (@Gerrard8FanPage) December 14, 2020
A great man and a great manager. Liverpool will be forever grateful. Gérard Houllier – Repose en paix ❤️ pic.twitter.com/36s13bglIB
— Jordan Henderson (@JHenderson) December 14, 2020
Chairman Tom Werner offers sincere condolences to Gerard Houllier's family.
Rest in peace, Gerard. YNWA pic.twitter.com/8DPa5T4Ctz
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) December 14, 2020
