Klopp leaves Joost’s son ‘speechless’
LIVERPOOL manager Jürgen Klopp left the son of Springbok legend Joost van der Westhuizen “speechless” after responding to a heart-felt letter written by Jordan following his father’s death from motor neurone disease in February.
Klopp sent Jordan, 13, like his father an ardent Liverpool fan, a team jersey signed by the squad and a message in which he praised his courage in the face of tragedy.
In his letter, Jordan celebrated Joost’s talent and also spoke of their shared love for Liverpool.
“Dear Daddy. Thank you for everything, but most of all ‘be the best that you can be’. You are the best rugby player in the world! I want to be the best sportsman like you’ because you said I must work hard! I will always love you to the moon and back.
“Daddy, please tell God that Liverpool must win. You will never walk alone. I love you so much.”
Klopp wrote back: “We know that your daddy was a huge fan of Liverpool FC and we’re so pleased that he shared his passion with you. The letter you wrote to him about LFC meant a lot to us ... We hope you will have happy memories of the time you spent with him watching LFC play. You’ll never walk alone.”
Jordan’s mother, Amor Vittone, said he was overjoyed by the gesture. “What a huge surprise Jordan received today! A signed Liverpool jersey by the players with the authenticity card Liverpool FC and a personalised letter’ written to Jordan from Jürgen Klopp! He is speechless and I have goose bumps ...” she said on Instagram yesterday.
Joost was diagnosed with motor neurone disease in 2011 and died six years later, leaving Jordan and daughter Kylie.