Jurgen Klopp has paid tribute to Ray Clemence after the Liverpool and England legend died at the age of 72.
Clemence is widely considered one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time and won five top-flight titles, three European Cups and the FA Cup during his 14-year stint at Anfield.
The legendary goalkeeper then joined Tottenham, where he won the UEFA Cup and FA Cup for the second time.
Clemence finished his extraordinary career with more than 750 club appearances and 61 caps for England.
His family confirmed on Sunday that he had passed away at the age of 72.
Liverpool manager Klopp said in a statement: ‘This is an extremely sad moment for everyone associated with Liverpool FC and we, as the current team and management, send all our love to the family.
‘We should never forget it is great players who make great teams and clubs. You only need to listen to the legends of LFC from his era to understand his significance.
‘They say it better than I ever could, that Ray Clemence is one of the reasons our club is such a special one all these years later. He was one of the foundation stones that so much of this club’s success was built on.’
Jurgen Klopp’s full tribute to Ray Clemence
This is an extremely sad moment for everyone associated with Liverpool FC and we, as the current team and management, send all our love to the family.
We should never forget it is great players who make great teams and clubs. You only need to listen to the legends of LFC from his era to understand his significance. They say it better than I ever could, that Ray Clemence is one of the reasons our club is such a special one all these years later. He was one of the foundation stones that so much of this club’s success was built on.
Our feeling in this moment is of course overwhelmingly sadness, but it is also appreciation. Our fans will remember with fondness an extraordinary player and a wonderful person who contributed so much to Liverpool Football Club.
He and his loved ones are in our thoughts and prayers.
You’ll Never Walk Alone
Jürgen
In a separate statement, Premier League champions Liverpool said: ‘Undoubtedly one of, if not the, best goalkeepers in the world at the height of his powers, Clemence will never be forgotten by the Liverpool faithful.
‘Only three men have ever played more games for the club; few have lifted more trophies; none can match his total of clean sheets. It’s likely nobody ever will.
‘A multitude of superlatives spring to mind when considering his Anfield career but it can be summed up in two simple words: goalkeeping excellence.’
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