HEART-BREAKING Claudio Ranieri, the former manager of Leicester City, was ‘terribly affected’ by the death of chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.
Ranieri paid respect to the Foxes’ manager and praised the crucial role he played in the club’s memorable Premier League title triumph.
Claudio Ranieri, the former manager of Leicester City, has stated he is ‘terribly saddened’ by the terrible death of chairman Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha.
The Premier League champions’ manager has expressed his grief at the death of the Thai billionaire, whom he described as “a good man” and “a positive person who was full of energy.”
Srivaddhanaprabha was one of five persons killed in a helicopter accident outside the King Power Stadium after the Foxes’ 1-1 draw with West Ham on Saturday.
In the three days following the disaster, hundreds of flowers, cards, jerseys, and scarves have been put at Leicester’s home pitch as a tribute for the 60-year-old.
On Monday, son and vice chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha was joined at the stadium by his mother, Aimon, as they placed a wreath during an emotional morning in which Leicester players joined the grieving.
And Ranieri has stated that he “joins the family in grief” at the death of a man who handed him the Leicester job in 2015 and celebrated Premier League victory with him.
“I was terribly shaken by the news,” the Italian coach said, according to Sky Sports Italia.
“He was a good man who always had a kind word to say to everyone.” His optimism and capacity to make everyone love him was obvious to everybody. He only came into the dressing room to say nice things to you, never to criticize you.
“Once, shortly after my birthday, he came into the dressing room with a massive cake and made everyone sing ‘Happy Birthday.'”
“He was an illuminated man who improved everything he touched.”
“Now it’s up to his son, who has always had a passion for football, to follow in his father’s footsteps.”
“I remember thinking when we first met that he was a positive, energetic person.” When I arrived at Leicester, my goal was to ensure Premier League survival, and we all know what occurred after that.
“Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha made a significant contribution to the Premier League victory by arriving 30 minutes early to embrace everyone.” He never spoke out of turn and always had a smile on his face.
“I’m so sad right now that I want to cry with the family.”
