LFC mourns loss of Nelson Mandela

Steve Hunter @Shunter77

Liverpool Football Club was saddened to hear of the news that Nelson Mandela passed away on Thursday, aged 95.

Mandela, who was South Africa's first black president, died on December 5 after a long battle against illness.

He was a global statesman, who delivered his country from the dark days of apartheid after being imprisoned for 27 years.

In 1994, the same year he became president, Liverpool FC embarked on a tour of South Africa, where they were greeted by Mandela.

Reds winger John Barnes was among the travelling party - and years later, he recounted memories of meeting the Nobel Peace Prize winner.

"Even as a kid, I didn't have heroes that I would chase for their autograph," said Barnes. "But Mandela was different - he is the only man I have been properly in awe of.

"I am not ashamed to say I had my picture taken with him and it hangs proudly on my wall at home."

Liverpool have confirmed a minute of applause will be held before Saturday's home game against West Ham, to celebrate the life of Mandela.

Reds players past and present have been delivering their tributes to Mandela. See below a selection of their Tweets - and click here to view photos of the Liverpool players and staff meeting Mandela in our Facebook gallery.

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