Liverpool Football Club is today mourning the loss of former defender Gary Ablett.

The 46-year-old passed away on Sunday evening following a 16-month battle with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish today spoke of his sadness at the news.

He told the official LFC website: "The most important thing just now is to pay our respects to Gary, his wife Jacqueline, the two boys and his wee girl.

"It's a sad, sad day for his family and everyone connected with Liverpool Football Club. Obviously he had a long battle and I'm sure it was a lot of suffering and a lot of pain for him, but the only thing you can say is at least he won't be suffering any longer.

"I gave Gary his debut and remember him scoring on his first start at Anfield against Nottingham Forest.

"He was a really good servant to the football club not only as a player, but also as reserve team coach.

"He served the club proudly and credibly. It's very sad for everybody."

Former Liverpool striker and team-mate Ian Rush added: "Gary was a really versatile player, somebody who would play anywhere the manager asked him.

"The fact he played for both Liverpool and Everton says something about how good he was as a player.

"He summed up what Liverpool people are all about. He gave 100% to the team and my favourite memory of him was after the 1989 FA Cup final - he was so proud to win something for the team.

"Off the pitch, he was the perfect gentleman. He had a lovely family, which he brought up really well, and he was such a respectable person. If he could help you with anything, he would." 

* KOPTALK hasn't been on form since July due to a serious illness in the KOPTALK family. The editor's mother is critically ill in hospital and this is naturally having an effect on our performance. The rest of the team is here as normal but without the 'Big Man' barking instructions and sparking a few debates, the place isn't the same. Most of you are aware of this. Thanks for your kind words of support and patience.