Jamie Carragher,
This just has to be said, because you have taught me so much in all those years you served at Liverpool FC, more than any life lesson has taught me.
Loyalty, passion, determination and respect, you are the epitome of it all.
You showed us that football is more than just kicking a ball around, that it is not just a mindless sport. You were never in it for the fame or the money. You didn't head towards glory, instead you stayed with LFC because to you they were family, and you never turned your back on family. For years you were our wall, and nothing deterred you. You gained respect and fans, and you deserved it.
Your love for Liverpool showed across all barriers of race , culture, countries and language.
Thank you for standing strong. Thank you for never turning your back on us, thank you for not chasing fame or money and most of all thank you for Istanbul 2005. Although you did not score the winning goal, you were the rock that saved us, you were the voice that encouraged us and most of all you were the brains behind the victory. Wobbly legs ? Genius, Carra.
You mentioned in your autobiography that it all started with the way your father handled you faking an injury. Credit to the man for raising a son with integrity and dedication. You played through the worst of injuries and cramps, never faking it again.
Thank you Carra. Thank you for all those years. When we think of the number 23, we think of you. When we look back on true loyalty and passion we see your face. In a world where money is everything, men like you are highly underrated.
I only hope if I ever have a son, I will raise him to be half the man you are.
There will never be another Carra and can only hope to see you on the coaching side for the reds because there is no better inspiration or role model than you.
Till then, I know it is time to say good bye. I know that, though I will not be at Anfield or even England when you receive your emotional send off, I will be standing up, tears in my eyes because this is the end of something great.
And we have been lucky to say, that we got to witness the "Carragher Era"
Thank You,
I can think of no more words to say
~ Michelle
"“This is the best club in the world with the best fans, so I'm very proud to be a Liverpool player" Jamie Carragher.
