Vialli's wife breaks silence with heartfelt tribute to late Chelsea legend
Gianluca Vialli's widow Cathryn White-Cooper has paid tribute to the late footballer, who died at the age of 58.
Former Italy and Chelsea striker Vialli passed away at Royal Marsden Hospital last week, five years after first being diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He had stepped down from a role with the Italian national team in December as he was readmitted to hospital for further treatment.
Tributes have been pouring in from across the football world, with Chelsea calling Vialli "A legend to us and to all of football". And now the Italian's widow and mother to his children has paid tribute.
"Luca was a sportsman of great talent and respected by all but he was also a loving husband and father," Cathryn told Italian media (via The Mail ). "We are all devastated. Thank you all for your love and support."
"He was a fantastic man, not only an exceptional sportsman, but a man with a story to tell, with his courage and his words, he transmitted an important message to all those fighting against cancer," Cathryn's sister Libby said.
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Chelsea paid their own respects ahead of Sunday's FA Cup game at Manchester City, and will do so again for their first home match after Vialli's death. The Blues are due to host Crystal Palace on January 15, giving fans an opportunity to pay tribute for a man who was a fan favourite as a player and manager.
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Gianluca Vialli's wife Cathryn White-Cooper has paid tribute (Corbis via Getty Images)
She described the late striker as a "loving husband and father" (Dave Benett/Getty Images)Antonio Conte, a former team-mate and friend of Vialli's, pulled out of press responsibilities ahead of his Tottenham team's weekend FA Cup game after learning of Vialli's death. A number of players past and present have also shared their memories of the Champions League winner, including former Chelsea captain John Terry.
"Heartbroken. Luca Vialli RIP. The man who gave me my debut at Chelsea and I will forever be grateful," Terry wrote. "A true gentleman who will be truly missed. My love and condolences are with the Vialli family at this incredibly sad day."
The Italian Football Federation also confirmed games over the weekend would be preceded by a minute's silence for the Azzurri legend. Vialli was part of the Italy squad which reached the World Cup semi-finals on home soil in 1990, and scored a total of 16 goals for his country.
"I am deeply saddened – I hoped until the last that he could perform another miracle, yet I am comforted by the certainty that what he did for Italian football and the blue shirt will never be forgotten," the Federation's president Gabriele Gravina said in a statement. Gianluca was a wonderful person and leaves an unfillable void, in the national team and in all those who appreciated his extraordinary human qualities."
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