I’LL THINK OF TEL AS WE SALUTE SVEN

TERRY VENABLES was a great manager – and an even better human being. I was honoured to receive an invitation from the FA to link up with the England Euro 96 squad for next Saturday’s showpiece friendly against Brazil after it was decided to use the occasion to celebrate Terry’s life. Unfortunately, I can’t be at Wembley – nor can my good pal Steve Mcmanaman. We had both already committed ourselves to be at the legends’ game being played between former players of Liverpool and Ajax on the same day. Sven-goran Eriksson will realise his ambition of managing the

Liverpool team after revealing it was his wish in his losing battle with cancer.

And, after playing a role in making sure Sven’s dream will come true, I felt that I had to be on Merseyside rather than at Wembley.

I would like to send my best wishes to Terry’s family – and assure them I’ll be there in spirit as fans pay tribute to the man who came so close to bringing football home 28 years ago.

Despite the disappointment of that campaign, it was a remarkable summer when it felt like the entire nation fell back in love with the game.

Terry (left) was a brilliant coach and tactician. But he was also an astonishing manager of men and he fostered an incredible spirit in his squad that became unbreakable.

Another regret I’ve got is that I didn’t realise Sven was a Liverpool fan when he was England manager.

If I had I might have been able to persuade him to start me in a few more games!

I do remember England playing at Anfield in a World Cup qualifier against Finland and he was beaming with pride. Now we all know why.

The outpouring of sympathy from around the country when it was announced Sven was seriously ill showed how we all feel about him.

I am sure he will get a rousing reception when he steps out in front of the Kop before the game.