Gary O'Neil's 'incredible' dad dies as Ipswich manager shares heartfelt tribute after tragic news

Premier League manager Gary O'Neil has shared an emotional tribute to his dad, Graham, as he announced his death in a social media post. The Ipswich Town boss took to Instagram to share the sad news.

He posted a picture of himself as a child standing alongside his dad in England shorts and with a football in his hand. In the caption, he shared a heartfelt tribute. "Thanks for everything Dad!" he wrote.

"I couldn't have done any of it without you.

"You taught me football, you taught me values and you taught me how to look after everyone that's important to me. What an incredible example you set!!"

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"ll miss you forever mate! Rest in peace, Dad! ! Love you."

Ipswich also posted on social media to express their condolences. They wrote on X: "All at Ipswich Town are deeply saddened by the passing of Gary O'Neil's father, Graham."

"Our thoughts, condolences and love are with Gary and his family at this incredibly sad time."

The tribute from O'Neil sparked messages of support from former players. Joao Gomes, who played under the boss at Wolves, wrote: "I'm sorry for you, Boss."

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Ex-player turned pundit Steve Sidwell responded with a blue heart, while former defender turned pundit Curtis Davies wrote: "Sorry for your loss mate."

O'Neil is expected back in the dugout when Ipswich face Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday (3pm kick-off).

Ipswich currently occupy 10th spot in the Premier League, having picked up two wins and suffered two defeats from their opening four fixtures of the campaign. Following last weekend's thrilling 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace, O'Neil admitted it has been the most rewarding period of his career to date.

"It's been the best four months of my career, playing or managing. I've loved it, every minute of it," he said.

"The playing group just gives everything. We'll lose some, but we'll give everything when we lose."

The Tractor Boys'most recent game saw them fall to a 4-2 loss against Arsenal in the third round of the Carabao Cup. The Gunners emerged as 4-2 victors at Portman Road courtesy of goals from Max Dowman (x2), Noni Madueke and Mikel Merino.