It’s been just under a week since I, like all of us, heard of the passing of a great man in Craig Shakespeare.

Upon hearing the news, I found it difficult to find the words to express how much Shakey meant to me, and how much his loss will be felt by all that knew him. Since then, I’ve spent a lot of time thinking about him and the impact he had on me, both on and off the pitch.

Shakey was an incredible coach, but more than that, an incredible human being. As soon as I arrived at Leicester City, his warmth and ability to connect to people allowed me to settle into my new surroundings. That, in turn, provided the platform for me to immediately focus on football at Leicester, and from there I was gifted with the ability to play under Shakey – simply put, one of the best coaches I have ever worked with.

It was a joy to see him continue his progression as a coach after I left the club. To witness him be part of winning the Premier League with City, before going on to be named manager full-time and oversee that incredible night in Seville was inspiring.

Much of what I learned from Shakey is implemented in my own coaching today. For that, and so much more, I will be forever grateful.

Many of my thoughts have been for Shakey’s family and close friends at this sad time, and my thoughts and prayers continue to be with them. He’ll be sorely missed by all.