I was as big a critic as any in his first season, albeit with fair comment. He visibly shat out of challenges and was reluctant to engage. Recovering from an injury, the guy looked finished. Toast.
Wow. What a comeback.
What a fantastic footballer this absolute gentleman turned out to be.
More importantly, a fabulous human being.
I know many people who work in hospitality and whose livelihoods were under threat due to the pandemic. Their rent and homes were in danger.
Ilkay created a fund for these people. I personally know three people he saved from becoming homeless.
What a man. What a King.
I apologise for ever doubting him and bless the days we had him.
A much better man than me.