Kenny Dalglish has today led the tributes to Gary Ablett who sadly passed away on Sunday night after a 16-month battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.
It was the Reds boss who handed Ablett his debut against Charlton Athletic in December 1986 before the Aigburth-born defender went on to win two league titles and an FA Cup during an Anfield playing career that spanned 147 games.
Speaking to Liverpoolfc.tv on Monday, Dalglish said: "The most important thing just now is to pay our respects to Gary, his wife Jacqueline, the two boys and his wee girl.
"It's a sad, sad day for his family and everyone connected with Liverpool Football Club. Obviously he had a long battle and I'm sure it was a lot of suffering and a lot of pain for him, but the only thing you can say is at least he won't be suffering any longer.
"I gave Gary his debut and remember him scoring on his first start at Anfield against Nottingham Forest.
"He was a really good servant to the football club not only as a player, but also as reserve team coach.
"He served the club proudly and credibly. It's very sad for everybody."
http://www.liverpoolfc.tv/news/latest-news/dalglish-leads-ablett-tributes
