The sudden passing of former England manager Graham Taylor has resulted in an outpouring of affection for a very well liked man in the football community.
While former friends, colleagues, former players have expressed their sadness having heard the news that broke this afternoon, few will have had as close a relationship with Taylor than Ireland legend Paul McGrath.
The Irish defender took to twitter to pay his respects, expressing what a big impact Taylor had on his career.
Devestated to hear of Graham's sad passing, what a gentleman. In my darkest days himself and Rita were always there for me #RipGrahamAHero
— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) January 12, 2017
McGrath had spoken before on how Graeme Taylor had played a huge role in his career and indeed life in an interview with the Daily Mail back in 2010.
Graham Taylor was brilliant to me in more ways than one. He made sure I was OK on the pitch. But he didn’t just want that. He wanted me to feel good about myself off it.
He wasn’t one of those managers who just left it up to the physios. He did his homework. I wanted to pay him back. I played as well as I could that year.
And it wasn't just McGrath who Taylor had a positive impact on, as many members of the football community have also taken to social media to express their sympathies having heard the news
still many staff who worked with Graham at Villa, a true gent and helped the club in many ways rip Graham.
— keith wyness (@retsub12) January 12, 2017
Everyone at #watfordfc is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our most successful manager. We love you, Graham Taylor. #thankyouGT
— Watford FC (@WatfordFC) January 12, 2017
Shocked to hear of the passing of Graham Taylor such a nice man sad loss to the game. Rip
— Jason MCATEER (@MCATEER4) January 12, 2017
Completely shocked by news of Graham Taylor. Always held him in the very highest regard - the man who gave me my first @england cap. So sad.
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) January 12, 2017
Thoughts are with Graham Taylor's family. A proper footballing man. RIP
— Joseph Barton (@Joey7Barton) January 12, 2017
Very sad to hear the news about Graham Taylor. A @WatfordFC legend and an absolute gentleman ??
— Ashley Young (@youngy18) January 12, 2017
Saddened to hear the news that Graham Taylor has died, a man who loved his football & achieved his ultimate goal. Only 72 years of age RIP
— Chris Kamara (@chris_kammy) January 12, 2017
Sad news about Graham Taylor . Had so much respect for him . Gave me my premier league debut and I will always be thankful .
— Peter Crouch (@petercrouch) January 12, 2017
Thank you for everything,you will be missed sir! #RIP Mr Taylor "Gaffa" pic.twitter.com/oGcHPnRULQ
— Dion Dublin (@DionDublinsDube) January 12, 2017
