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BBC News – Sven-Goran Eriksson, England’s first non-British head coach, has died.
Eriksson led the Three Lions to the quarter-finals of three major tournaments during his five-year spell in charge between 2001 and 2006.
In January this year, after being diagnosed with cancer, Erickson said he had “at most” one year to live.
His children, Lena and Johan, said on Monday: “Our father Sven-Goran Eriksson passed away peacefully this morning at his home in Björkfors outside Sogne. He had been fighting a long and brave battle with his illness, but now it is finally over.
“Dad told us earlier this year that he was seriously ill and we had an amazing response from friends and football fans from all over Europe.
“He had been invited to join several football teams in England, Italy, Portugal and Sweden. They shared their love of football and their father.
“It was unforgettable for him and for us. He expressed his gratitude and joy and said such beautiful words are usually only said when someone dies.
“We hope you will remember Swinness as the kind, positive person he always was, both in public and at home.”
The Swedish star has coached 12 clubs including Manchester City, Leicester City, Roma and Lazio, winning 18 trophies.
Eriksson has also coached the Mexican, Ivory Coast and Philippine national teams.
After retiring at the age of 27, Eriksson began his coaching career with Degerfors in 1977 before joining Swedish side FC Gothenburg, where he won the Swedish title, two Swedish Cups and the 1982 UEFA Cup.
He then had two spells at Portuguese giants Benfica and coached Italian sides Roma, Fiorentina, Sampdoria and Lazio, winning seven trophies with those clubs, including the Serie A title, two Coppa Italias and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
Following his diagnosis, Eriksson spent a year visiting some of his former clubs, including Lazio and Sampdoria.
The Swede, a lifelong Liverpool fan, helped Liverpool Legends beat Ajax Legends 4-2 at Anfield in March.
He shared a poignant message at the end of his new documentary, Sven, which was released earlier this month.
“I hope you will remember me as a positive person who tried to do the best I could,” he said.
“Don’t be sorry, smile. Thank you for everything, the coaches, the players, the crowd, it’s all been great. Take care of yourself, take care of your life. Live your life.”
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