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By David Prendeville
A friendly has been announced in aid of the fundraising drive for Sean Cox in the Aviva on April 12th. The friendly will see a team of Liverpool legends take on a legendary Ireland XI.
Sean, who hails from County Meath, was badly injured whilst attending a UEFA Champions League game at Anfield and there has been a huge swell of support in the aftermath to aid his recovery.
Sean’s wife Martina Cox, said: “Sean has been supporting Liverpool all of his life and to have this match in Dublin in his name will be a special day. It’s going to be a very long and slow process for Sean’s recovery and I’d like to thank the overwhelming support that Liverpool fans have shown. I’d also like to thank the club, players and those former players who will be playing in the match for their continued support. We are also working with LFC on a number of other initiatives that will help to support Sean’s care in the years ahead.”
FAI CEO John Delaney said: “The FAI have been in contact with Sean’s family about offering support and this game against Liverpool, who have a strong support base in Ireland, is ideal to help raise funds for the Rehabilitation Trust.
“We have a strong relationship with Liverpool, having hosted Jurgen Klopp’s team at Aviva Stadium for the last two years in sold-out games against Athletic Club and Napoli. For this game, we will have an Ireland XI led by current Republic of Ireland manager Mick McCarthy and it should be a great night for a fantastic cause.”
Peter Moore, Chief Executive Officer at Liverpool FC, said: “We’re all behind Sean and his family. We hope this unique Legends game in Ireland’s capital will be a huge success and help generate vital funds to support Sean’s rehabilitation. The solidarity shown from supporters throughout the world for Sean is incredible and we thank everyone for their continued support, including the Football Association of Ireland and its CEO John Delaney, in helping to arrange this game.”
Stephen Felle, Chairman of the Sean Cox Rehabilitation Trust, added: “As well as being a fantastic event in honour of Sean Cox, it will be a special opportunity for Irish Liverpool fans, and Irish sports fans generally, to see a myriad of legends play in the Aviva Stadium. To coincide with the visit of LFC to Dublin, we are also planning a gala dinner in aid of the SupportSean campaign in Dublin on the evening prior to the match.”
There have been a number of fundraising initiatives for Sean that have taken place in recent months, including Liverpool raising €59,000 and a football tournament in Ratoath Harps AFC. Anyone can support the Appeal by visiting – www.gofundme.com/SupportSeanCox.
