Southampton owner Liebherr dies, aged 62

The Southampton owner Markus Liebherr died yesterday at the age of 62. The cause of the German-born businessman's death was not disclosed by the club.

Liebherr, a construction magnate, orchestrated a takeover in July last year, and took the club out of administration. Last season they won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and just missed out on the play-offs, despite the a 10-point deduction.

The League One side did release a lengthy statement in tribute. It read: "Anyone who came to know Markus learned of his quick wit, love of football and his unquenchable thirst for better knowledge of all things. Anyone who had the privilege of meeting Markus met a man who was quiet, unassuming, undemonstrative and fantastic fun to be with.

"The well-laid plans for the club mapped out over a year ago will continue to be implemented – nothing will change."