David Beckham said he would be "forever grateful" to "true gentleman" Sven-Goran Eriksson following the former England manager's death on Monday at the age of 76.

Eriksson became the first foreign manager of the England team when he was appointed in 2001, leading the team to three successive quarter-final appearances before leaving his post after the 2006 World Cup.

"Sven, thank you for always being the person you have always been - passionate, caring, calm and a true gentleman.

"I will be forever grateful for you making me your captain but I will forever hold these last memories of this day with you and your family... Thank you Sven and in your last words to me 'It will be ok'."

Eriksson's public confirmation of his illness led to an outpouring of affection, something recognised by his family who thanked the football world for making his last months "unforgettable".