A wave of grief took English fans over earlier tonight. Former Liverpool and Nottingham Forest icon Larry Lloyd tragically passed away at 75, leaving fans mourning his demise. Unknown to many, Lloyd is immortal in Anfield folklore, with the defender part of the first Liverpool team to win a European title. His success with Forest also helped to put the club on the map, as he clinched two European titles with the team in 1979 and 1980.
Larry Lloyd was a beloved player, with fans filled with nothing but praise for the defender. Even after retiring, fans often spotted the English soccer star at his bar ‘The Stage Door’, watching games and interacting with the fans. According to reports, Lloyd did not have any health issues before his demise and passed away in his sleep. Nottingham Forest was amongst the first clubs to pay tribute to the late defender. On their official X handle, the club acknowledged the player for his invaluable contributions before providing warm wishes to his family.
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Lloyd.
Part of the Miracle Men, Larry was an integral player in the Forest side that memorably won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980, making 218 appearances for the club in total.
We send our condolences to… pic.twitter.com/Y2gxQuqoQa
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) March 28, 2024
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Liverpool fans soon joined the fray as they reacted to the unfortunate news on social media. Many fans shared their memories of the player on and off the court while remembering him for his jolly personality. Lloyd’s loss is a tragic blow to the English soccer community, which lost some icons over the past few months.
Fans react to Larry Lloyd’s tragic passing
Former Liverpool star John Aldridge reacted to the unfortunate news minutes after it broke out. Aldridge praised Larry Lloyd by labeling him an exceptional player for Liverpool and Nottingham Forest. The defender had a successful career with the Reds, helping them win the European silverware before moving to Coventry City for a record fee.
What an exceptional player big Larry Lloyd was both for Lfc and Forest 👏👏👏RIP pic.twitter.com/f6dMC0NJty
— John Aldridge (@Realaldo474) March 28, 2024
The defender had a decorated career, with Forrest following his stint at Coventry. During his time with Forest, Lloyd helped the club bag promotion to the first division before assisting them to win the league title in 1978. Following his run with the side, Lloyd joined as a player-manager at Wigan Athletic, helping them secure a promotion to League One.
Sad news about former Liverpool defender Larry Lloyd.
Lloyd lifted the league title and the UEFA Cup whilst making 218 appearances during a five-year spell under Bill Shankly before going on to win two European Cups at Nottingham Forest.
Rest In Peace. pic.twitter.com/7C8mIp4Q0L
— The Redmen TV (@TheRedmenTV) March 28, 2024
Another fan voiced similar sentiments to Liverpool fans paying tribute to Lloyd using the club’s iconic motto, “You will never walk alone.”
You'll never walk alone ❤️🙏
— kijanaa ya p2😂 (@thee_darian) March 28, 2024
The English national team also reacted to Larry Lloyd’s passing through their official handle. Through their X account, the Three Lions paid tribute to the Forest legend. Lloyd debuted for the national team in 1971 and represented his country in four fixtures.
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We are saddened to hear that Larry Lloyd, who won four caps for the #ThreeLions between 1971 and 1980, has passed away aged 75.
Our thoughts are with his family and friends. pic.twitter.com/tqfk9SE58p
— England (@England) March 28, 2024
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Both supporters will undoubtedly feel his loss, with Liverpool and Nottingham Forest likely paying tribute to their icon in their upcoming fixture.