BBC Breakfast presenters Ben Thompson and Luxmy Gopal began Saturday’s broadcast with the sombre announcement of football great Denis Law’s death.
The former Manchester United, Manchester City, and Scotland star died at 84 following his battle with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia, as confirmed on Friday evening.
Ben Thompson opened the show by saying: “Tributes have been paid to the former Scotland, Manchester United, and Manchester City footballer, Denis Law, who has died at the age of 84.”
Luxmy Gopal noted Denis Law’s remarkable stint at Old Trafford, highlighting: “He spent more than a decade at Old Trafford, where he scored 237 goals and remains the only Scottish player to have won the prestigious Ballon d’Or.”
The programme paused to honour Denis Law’s illustrious career with a montage of flashbacks underlining his footballing prowess.
In the segment, BBC sports correspondent Andy Swiss dubbed him “the king” revered by Manchester United fans, while also mentioning that his arm in the air celebration became one of the most familiar in football, reports the Express.
The tribute featured Denis Law discussing his battle with strabismus that caused him squint eyes, which impacted his self-esteem and initial playing style. He detailed playing football with one eye closed until corrective surgery changed his life path, leading him to play for Manchester City in the 1960s.
As the tribute concluded, Luxmy acknowledged the profound loss felt by both sides of Manchester’s football community.
Reflecting on the death of Denis Law, BBC’s Gavin Ramjaun expressed his sentiments saying: “You describe football players these days as legends. But, I think Denis Law, I mean, there’s no more appropriate word really. Absolute legend of the game, completely. Along with Sir Bobby Charlton and George Best for United back in those times, the holy trinity as they were called.”
The family of Denis Law released a heartfelt statement following his death, conveying: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle, but finally, he is now at peace.”
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference.”
Since the announcement of Denis Law’s death, an outpouring of tributes has been seen. Manchester United tweeted their respects, posting: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84. Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’s family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”
Manchester City joined in, expressing condolences: “The whole of Manchester, including everyone at City, is mourning with you. Rest in peace, Denis. Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this difficult time.”
Plymouth Argyle FC expressed their condolences, stating: “The thoughts of everyone at Argyle are with Denis’ friends and family at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Denis.”
Liverpool FC also paid tribute, saying: “Sending condolences from all of us at LFC. Denis was a rival player but so highly thought of. As Bill Shankly once said, ‘Denis Law could dance on eggshells.’ Our thoughts are with Denis’ family and friends at this very sad time.”
BBC Breakfast continues weekdays on BBC One rom 6am.