Football world’s tribute to Louise
England star Jordan Henderson has joined in offering tributes to his home club Sunderland AFC’s media boss Louise Wanless following her death aged 52.
She spent 16 years heading up the club’s media and communications department and was part of its staff when she passed away after a long-term illness this week.
Tributes have flooded in from people across the footballing world and beyond, as her role saw her work alongside organisations and communities across the region.
MidfielderJordanHenderson, who played for the Black Cats from 2008 to 2011 and is part of England’s Euro 2020 squad, retweeted the club’s statement with the message: “Very sad to hear this news about Louise. More than anything she was a kind, caring and amazing person.
"She’llbesorelymissed.My thoughts are with her family, friends and colleagues.”
Max Power, who has just made the move from Sunderland to Wigan Athletic, said: "Terrible news. What a lovely woman who will be sorely missed. Rest in peace Louise.”
Father Marc Lyden-Smith, the club’s chaplain, shared his memories by saying: “Louise was a wonderfully kind and caring lady who worked so hard for @SunderlandAFC I will be praying for her and her lovely family and friends. May she rest in peace x.”
Everton was among the clubs to share their condolences and said: “Incredibly sad news. Our thoughts are with Louise’s family, friends and colleagues at @SunderlandAFC. Rest in peace, Lou.”
Among the region’s clubs to add their voice to tributes is Newcastle United, who said: “Extremely sad news.
"Ourdeepestsympathiesgo out to Louise's family, friends and everybody at @SunderlandAFC
at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Louise.”
Middlesbrough FC, where shehadworkedbeforemaking the move to Wearside in 2003, had added its tributes soon afterherdeathwasconfirmedon Wednesday.
It its statement, which saw former captain Kevin Ball lead its tributes, Sunderland said: “A hugely popular and well-respected figure within the game, she was held in immense regard by all at SAFC and served the club with unwavering dedication, an unrivalled work ethic and a fierce determination.”
In 2019, she was presented with the John Fotheringham Award at the North East Football Writers’ Awards.