John Toshack managed a number of high profile clubs across Europe during his managerial career, including Real Sociedad and Real Madrid, and both clubs honoured his achievements this weekend
John Toshack is honoured by Real Sociedad
Liverpool legend John Toshack was honoured by Real Sociedad in a rare appearance this weekend
Liverpool legend John Toshack made a rare appearance in Spain this weekend as he was presented with an award by former club Real Sociedad.
The 76-year-old hasn't been spotted in the public eye in recent years amid a number of health battles.
The former Wales and Real Madrid coach suffered pneumonia after complications from Covid and was admitted into intensive care in 2022.
But he was able to travel to Sociedad's stadium in San Sebastian as he was honoured with their Diamond and Gold badge, the highest honour they give out as a club.
Toshack was recognised after managing the Basque club across three separate spells - the first between 1985 and 1989, helping them win the Copa del Rey in 1987.
He later left to join Real Madrid for one season in 1989 before returning to Sociedad for another three years in 1991.
After a handful of stints across Europe - including a second spell at Madrid in 1999 - he went back to Sociedad for a third time in 2000, staying for another two years.
Toshack was honoured before Sociedad's game against another of his fellow clubs Real Madrid, whose manager Xabi Alonso posed alongside him in a touching photograph.
John Toshack with his trophies
Toshack was awarded the prestigious Diamond and Gold badge for his achievements, which include winning the Copa del Rey and La Liga
The former Wales and Liverpool forward had to be seated on a stool to take the picture as he shook hands with Alonso before kick-off.
Toshack made 247 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 96 goals and winning three First Division titles and the European Cup.
As a manager, he won the Copa del Rey, La Liga with Real Madrid, the Spanish Super Cup with Deportivo La Coruna and the Turkish Cup with Besiktas in 1998.
More recently he had a six-year stint with the Wales national side, his second time in charge, but wasn't able to lead the team to a major tournament.
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