The FAI has opened up a book of condolences for late former international manager Jack Charlton, who died on Friday at the age of 85.
It gives Irish fans an opportunity to pay their respects, and anyone can sign the virtual book here. The link will remain live until Monday, July 27th when the FAI will share all messages with the Charlton family.
FAI President Gerry McAnaney said the reaction to Charlton's death sums up how this country feels about him.
"The national outpouring of grief since Jack’s death was announced on Saturday morning has been phenomenal and reflective of the esteem in which Jack was held here in Ireland.
"We are offering Ireland fans the opportunity to extend their sympathies to Jack’s family online and to show the family just how much Jack meant to all of us here in Ireland."
Current Irish manager Stephen Kenny has also paid tribute to Charlton today.
The FAI have opened a Virtual Book of Condolences in memory of Jack Charlton
We invite supporters to extend their sympathies to Jack’s family as we remember his great service to Irish football.
➡️ https://t.co/HlLMZfJwBu #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/kLq7yqOO8G— FAIreland ⚽️🇮🇪 (@FAIreland) July 12, 2020
"It was very sad to hear the news yesterday of Jack’s passing. To qualify for three major tournaments, two World Cups and a European Championship, was an exceptional achievement.
"Those tournaments also showed us how a successful Irish football team can lift and inspire the nation. May he rest in peace."
Alan Kelly, who earned his first Irish cap when Charlton was manager, said he was an inspiration to the players that played under him.
"Big Jack was a legend on both sides of the Irish Sea, a legend in England for winning the World Cup and a legend in Ireland for what he did for our national team.
"You just have to look at what he achieved as a player with Leeds United and England and as a manager with Ireland to realise that his legendary tag is fully deserved. He was such a huge character and such a great man.
"When he walked into a room, you waited to see what he was about to say. There was always a nugget in there when he spoke and always something worth listening to, no matter what the subject.
"I can only thank Jack for everything he did for Ireland and for me as a player. It was a pleasure to play for him and to know him and my heart goes out to Pat, John, Deborah and Peter and all the Charlton family.”
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