Jack Grealish has revealed the private message Craig Shakespeare sent him after being snubbed by England for Euro 2024.
On Thursday night, it was confirmed that former Leicester City manager Shakespeare had passed away at the age of 60.
A statement read: “It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Shakespeare, 'SHAKEY'. Craig passed away peacefully this morning at home surrounded by his family.
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“Whilst the family are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.”
It continued: “The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person.
“The family would like to thank and acknowledge the many prayers and good wishes sent during the past few difficult months, many of which we were unable to respond to but all meant a lot to Craig and the family.”
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On the back of the sad news, many players, staff and journalists paid tribute to the man who played a key role in Leicester’s Premier League triumph back in 2016.
Grealish, who worked with Shakespeare during his time at Aston Villa took to social media to pay an emotional tribute.
He wrote: “Shakey, one of the greatest people I’ve ever met not only in football but in life. Last month was texting me when I didn’t make the euros squad whilst he was ill shows the type of man he was! An absolute heart of gold! Everyone really will miss you Shakey. Absolutely devastated, sending all my love to his family.”
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Grealish then posted a screenshot of one of the messages he had received from Shakespeare, it read: “Jack, sometimes it’s hard to know what to say. But I’m gutted for you and thinking about you. My most gifted player I’ve worked with. Take care, Shakey.”
Topics: Jack Grealish, Manchester City, Aston Villa, Football
Marcus Chan