Gary O'Neil pays tribute to father Graham after Ipswich manager announces his death

Gary O’Neil announced the death of his father, Graham, in an emotional Instagram post, with Ipswich Town and a number of former players quickly offering their support to the Premier League manager.

O’Neil shared a childhood photograph of himself standing alongside his father, dressed in England shorts and holding a football. In the caption, he wrote: “Thanks for everything Dad! 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!! I’ll miss you forever mate! Rest in peace, Dad! Love you.”

Ipswich responded on X, writing: “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 drew messages from several figures connected to O’Neil’s career. Joao Gomes, who played under him at Wolves, wrote: “I’m sorry for you, Boss.” Former midfielder turned pundit Steve Sidwell responded with a blue heart, while ex-defender Curtis Davies wrote: “Sorry for your loss mate.”

O’Neil is expected to return to the dugout when Ipswich face Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium in the Premier League on Saturday. The Tractor Boys currently sit 10th in the table after two wins and two defeats from their opening four league fixtures.

Following last weekend’s 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace, O’Neil reflected on what has been an extraordinary start to life in the top flight with the newly promoted club. “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.”

Ipswich’s most recent outing ended in a 4-2 defeat to Arsenal in the third round of the Carabao Cup, with goals from Max Dowman (two), Noni Madueke and Mikel Merino settling the tie at Portman Road.