cheddar404 said:
unsworthblue said:
truly great player and seems like a really decent fella
Unless you happen to be a southport dj and he smashes a bottle over your head....
I've been as critical of Gerrard as much as anyone of late but he does have a decent side to his character too:
For those who claim that Manchester City lost their soul when they became the richest club in the world, the story of Blues fan Carl Ramsbottom would suggest otherwise.
The 44-year-old council worker will return to Manchester by air ambulance this week - four months after suffering life-threatening head injuries in a fall downa staircase after City's UEFA Cup tie at Schalke.
Carl spent almost four weeks in a coma after an operation to release fluid fromhis brain following the accident in Dusseldorf train station.
He still faces months of therapy, but at least he can count on the support of the hundreds of wellwishers who have raised an estimated £18,000 to help.
The club have also played a part, with executive chairman Garry Cook handing over a substantial personal donation. City-supporting supergroup Oasis and boxing Blue Ricky Hatton have also helped.
Yet the support they have received from around the worldhasamazedtheRamsbottom family.
Cousin Ian said: "We always knew City fans would rally round because I have followed the club allmy life andIknowwhatkindofsupporters we have.
"But it isn't just City fans whohave got involved. Carl works on Merseyside and when some Liverpool fans heard what had happened they organised a cabaret evening that raised £3,000.
Steven Gerrard, Jamie CarragherandFernando Torres donated signed shirts.
"Then there was the lady, also from Merseyside, who donated a left-hand-drive wheelchair that once belonged to her late husband whenshe heard Carl would need one.
"Schalke's fans have been brilliant raisingmoney, and the club president has sent 1,000 euros."
Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so atwww.carlramsbottomappeal.blog spot.com.