Liverpool FC to pay tribute to Larry Lloyd at Anfield after ex-Nottingham Forest defender dies at 75

Liverpool Football Club is saddened by the passing of Larry Lloyd, a renowned figure in English football and former Nottingham Forest defender, who died at age 75 from undisclosed reasons.

Liverpool FC announced the passing of Larry Lloyd on March 28, 2024. Lloyd, renowned for his imposing stature on the field, was a vital member of Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest team that won the First Division in 1977-78. He was also a two-time European Cup winner.

“We are deeply saddened by the passing of former defender Larry Lloyd, aged 75. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Larry’s family and friends.”

According to reports, Liverpool FC is planning to honor Larry Lloyd during their next game at Anfield on Sunday, March 31, 2024 when they face off against Brighton & Hove Albion.

Farewell to a Legend: Remembering Nottingham Forest’s Larry Lloyd

Laurence Valentine Lloyd, born in 1948 in the United Kingdom, was a professional footballer and coach from England. He achieved domestic and European accolades while playing for Bill Shankly’s Liverpool and Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest during the 1970s.

Nottingham Forest honored their ex-defender, who achieved back-to-back European cup victories. In a social media post, the club acknowledged Larry’s significant contribution to the team and included a statement,

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Lloyd. Part of the Miracle Men, Larry was an integral player in the Forest side that memorably won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980, making 218 appearances for the club in total. We send our condolences to Larry’s friends and family at this truly sad time. Rest in peace, Larry.”

During a press conference held to discuss the upcoming game against Crystal Palace, Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo expressed his admiration for “one of the miracle men,”as he referred to him. Santo also took the opportunity to express his pride in Larry and praised him as a figure of great historical significance for the club.

“He was one of the miracle men, I’ve been told. Our feelings are with his family. It’s a sad moment. To win two European competitions in a row is very difficult so that’s why he’s so honored for us, we’re very proud. It’s big, big history.”

After starting his professional football career with Bristol Rovers, Larry Lloyd was signed by Liverpool Football Club in April 1969 for a transfer fee of £50,000 ($63,000) by manager Bill Shankly. During his time with Liverpool, the team achieved great success, winning the league and UEFA Cup double in 1973, with Larry playing in every game that season.

Lloyd (second from left) holding the cup for the First Division title in 1973 (Image via LFC)

Despite having several successful seasons, including a Championship win in 1972/73, Lloyd’s time at Liverpool came to an end due to a combination of injury and tactical changes. Subsequently, he made the decision to transfer to Coventry City.

After leaving his previous team, Larry joined Nottingham Forest and achieved great success. Under the guidance of Brian Clough, he won both the league title and the European Cup. Larry eventually ended his professional career at Wigan Athletic.

Larry’s first international appearance was on May 19, 1971 when he played against Wales.

To commemorate Larry’s incredible impact on the sport, Liverpool Football Club will honor him with a period of applause at Anfield on Sunday, March 31, 2024, during the Reds’ match against Brighton & Hove Albion.