On Saturday’s instalment of BBC Breakfast, hosts Ben Thompson and Luxmy Gopal kicked off the programme with a tribute to the late Denis Law
BBC Breakfast hosts report on death of Denis Law
BBC Breakfast presenters Ben Thompson and Luxmy Gopal started Saturday’s show with some heartbreaking news. The duo touched on the death of football legend Denis Law.
It was announced on Friday evening the former sports star had died at the age of 84 after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia.
Opening the BBC show, Ben said: “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 added: “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 BBC then took a moment to reflect on his incredible career, with a series of flashback shots of Denis during his football fame.
BBC Breakfast hosts open show with heartbreaking news (Image: BBC)
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In the footage, BBC sports correspondent Andy Swiss informed viewers that Denis was known as “the king” to Manchester United fans. He added: “Denis Law’s arm in the air celebration became one of the most familiar in football.”
During the tribute, it showed the late star talking about his eye condition, strabismus, which left him with squint eyes. He confessed feeling self-conscious and detailed about playing football with one eye closed.
However, after surgery, his career kicked off as he joined Manchester City in the 1960s. When the clip drew to a close, Luxmy highlighted it was a sad day for Manchester fans on both sides of the city.
Commenting on his death, BBC’s Gavin Ramjaun said: “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.”
Denis Law has died at the age of 84 (Image: GETTY)
Denis’ family released a statement announcing his death on Friday evening. They commented: “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 sad news of Denis’ death, tributes have been pouring in. Manchester United’s official Twitter have shared photos of the star on their page with the post: “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.”
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Denis’ family announced his death in a statement on Friday evening (Image: GETTY)
Manchester City commented: “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 added: “The thoughts of everyone at Argyle are with Denis’ friends and family at this very sad time. Rest in peace, Denis.”
Liverpool FC shared: “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.”
