Sven Goran Eriksson’s final words are published in an unfinished newspaper column on the day before the ex-England manager’s funeral: ‘Don’t give up. Life is always, always to be celebrated’

Sven Goran Eriksson’s final written words have been published on the day before his funeral.

Eriksson passed away on August 26 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer, with countless tributes paid to the Swede, including football clubs across the country giving their respects over the last couple of weeks.

The former England manager revealed in January that he had ‘best case a year’ to live following his diagnosis, and he was surrounded by his family as he passed away a little over a week ago.

Via The Telegraph, Eriksson wrote: ‘Life is to be celebrated. I always had that attitude. How do I best illustrate that? Well, you may have heard the story one of my old players, Didier Hamann, tells about me when I was sacked by Manchester City in 2008.

‘We sat by the swimming pool on our sun loungers and had a drink. Celebrate life. That has always been my mindset – whatever is thrown at you. Since I was given the news that I had terminal cancer, it has been difficult. I had days when I felt very bad, and other days when I felt OK. Through it all though, I always tried to live every day with a smile on my face. You have to stay positive.

‘The response from the public has been wonderful. It has given me energy and positivity. I have cried a lot over the past few months. They have been happy tears, mostly. I would like people to remember me as a decent coach who tried to do his best. I hope they enjoyed me being their manager.

‘My message to everyone would be: don’t give up. Never give up. Do not give up, is my message for life. And please don’t forget this: life is always, always to be celebrated.’

More to follow.