Liam Manning has issued his first message in person to Bristol City fans and the footballing world after returning to head coach duties following his period of compassionate leave.
The 39-year-old returned to the touchline on Saturday against Leeds United at Ashton Gate after some time away following the tragic death of his new-born son Theo John Manning, however understandably remained away from media duties.
Speaking to Bristol City’s official YouTube channel, the Robins boss relayed his gratitude to the Reds faithful.
“It’s been overwhelming, to be totally honest,” Manning told the club.
“It’s been such a difficult period for me and my family, especially being in the public eye a little bit. It’s been overwhelming to see the support and have some of the messages we’ve received. And for a lot of people to share their stories as well in terms of knowing that we’re not alone with it. We’re hugely grateful for that and a massive thank you.
“The England Under-21s game at Ashton Gate was a really special moment so early after [what happened]. It was touching to get that support and to share Theo’s name, so it was a special moment.
“After that, at Middlesbrough, which was another really difficult moment for me and the family but at the same point it was one that did bring a smile to our faces, seeing the support that was out there. And the wider football community; things like this show that, as much as we are passionate about football, we obsess over it, we’re hugely emotionally invested, there’s a little reminder of perspective. It’s been overwhelming the support we’ve had from people from other clubs and people across the game.”
On his return to BS3 last weekend, Manning was greeted with a spectacular show of love as the City fans, led by fan group ‘Section 82’, displayed a beautiful tribute for Theo.
“Firstly, a massive thank you,” Manning emphasised.
“The City fans have been incredible. Especially ‘Section 82’; I know they were at the stadium at six in the morning getting everything prepared and the fundraising and stuff like that which has really touched me and is something that will live for me for the rest of my life.
“Incredible scenes. My wife and my son were there, and it was a really tough moment. Lots of lumps in the throat, especially at the end of the game. I found that extremely difficult going round afterwards but the City fans have been incredible.”
In Manning’s absence, his assistant Chris Hogg has taken the reigns, with the former full of gratitude towards one of his best friends.
“Hoggy, my closest friend, I’ve known him a long time. I can’t speak highly enough of him in terms of what he’s done for me as a person and how he’s stepped up here and what he’s taken on. He’s an incredible human being and he’s a fantastic coach as well that I’m proud to have alongside me. He’s backed up by a terrific group of people here.”
The key message from the Robins head coach was one that transcended the sport of football.
With all the importance that comes with what happens on a Saturday at three o’clock, it’s always important to take a step back and appreciate what really matters in life.
“The biggest thing is just a reminder of perspective,” continued Manning.
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“Of course, on Saturday when the game starts, I’m desperate to win like everybody else, but at the end of the day it’s how do we pull each other through? How do we make the most of every opportunity because we don’t how long we’re here for?
“I think sometimes we (in football) get slightly dehumanised because it’s so much about the result on the Saturday, but ultimately, I’m a normal person that grew up on a council estate a long way from here and I’ve had to work really hard to get here.
“So, let’s enjoy it when we win, stick together when we’re not performing well or when we’re losing. I think what we’ve got is a terrific group of people who are trying to achieve something special here.”
Manning also went on to commend the players, who have remained professional and to an admirable standard during tricky circumstances.
“When you look at how the lads have performed so far this season, even at the weekend having to really dig in. It’s been a tough period for them emotionally, so for them to dig in and to fight and scrap and show all the behaviours that you want to see, if I’m a fan turning up and paying money, that’s the bare minimum. It’s very much, let’s come together and make sure that, starting at Preston this weekend and beyond, we’ll stick together and push to try and achieve something special.”