There were poignant tributes to Liam Miller during TV3’s Champions League coverage on Tuesday night.
While Tottenham’s trip to Juventus turned out to be both frantic and thrilling, there was time for the panel to reflect on Miller’s legacy.
The Cork native, who sadly lost his battle with cancer last week, would have celebrated his 37th birthday on Tuesday, so it was fitting that his former Celtic teammate Neil Lennon and international manager Brian Kerr were in the studio to pay tribute to the man.
When asked by presenter Tommy Martin to offer his enduring memories of Miller, Lennon spoke very well:
“In 20, 30 odd games his impact on Celtic was immense,” the Lurgan man remarked, while footage of Miller’s headed goal against Lyon in the Champions League played on the screen.
“He went on to have a fine league career with us and then went on to make his United debut against Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea. It was a meteoric rise for a lad who had that steely Cork determination. His temperament on the pitch was fantastic, could run all day, was really composed on the ball and away from the field he was a perfect gentleman, really.”
Miller played under Kerr for the Republic of Ireland U16 side that won the European Championship before being handed his senior debut for the country by the manager.
“Well it was [an incredibly poignant occasion],” the Dubliner said when asked about the funeral. “There was a massive turnout. Great representation of all the clubs he played for. Celtic had Danny McGrain there, Willie McStay said a few beautiful words.
“I was fortunate to come across Miller when he was only 16. He was a quiet, lovely boy who I saw developing into a remarkably gentleman really. And he was a gentle man. But, as Neil said, a steely boy – tough fella. Unbelievable composure for a little fella in the middle of the pitch.
“He had that composure and timing – and quality as well. And he had a range of passing that would surprise you for a little fella, He was brilliant to work with, never an ounce of trouble. He was an adventurer. I worked out he played in 11 different cities, six different countries, as well as playing for his dream teams of Celtic, Manchester United and Ireland.
“A tragic loss. An awful loss for his family.”
Miller was laid to rest in his native Cork. He is survived by his wife Clare, his children Kory, Leo and Belle and his parents Billy and Bridie.
Liam Miller was an "adventurer" with steely Cork determination, composure and quality.
Neil Lennon and Brian Kerr paid tribute to him on @TV3Ireland last night. pic.twitter.com/MQK9ujnWb7— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) February 14, 2018
