Callaghan leads tributes to LFC great Gerry Byrne
Ian Callaghan has led the tributes to Liverpool legend Gerry Byrne who sadly passed away today at the age of 77.
The pair shared some wonderful moments together under Bill Shankly at Anfield and the duo were pivotal in helping the Reds win their first ever FA Cup in 1965.
Byrne went down in history as playing most of the game at Wembley against Leeds United despite suffering from a broken collar bone.
In paying tribute to his friend, Callaghan told Liverpoolfc.com: “He was my first roommate at Liverpool and he was just a lovely guy.
“He was hard on the field but he was also the most gentle man off the field and I enjoyed the years playing alongside him.
“I heard a recording recently on DVD with Bill Shankly talking about Gerry’s contribution in 1965 and he said he should have got 11 medals for what he did for the club that day.”
Reflecting on his qualities as a player, Callaghan said: “Gerry was one of the best two-footed players I’ve ever seen.
“I think he was on the transfer list when Shanks arrived and he was quickly taken off it. Mr Shankly is quoted as saying Gerry was one of the best players in his squad.
“He was a gentleman and he will always be remembered as a great player, a great friend and he will be sorely missed by everybody.”