Having been at the football club for 15 years, John Achterberg has seen plenty at Liverpool.
Joining under Rafa Benitez in 2009, the goalkeeping coach worked alongside four different managers at Anfield.
He was there through the lows of the Hicks and Gillet reign to the highs of Liverpool’s resurgence with Jurgen Klopp and all that came with it. As far as backroom team members go, Achto is a Reds legend.
That’s why, after news filtered through that he will be leaving with Klopp this summer, there has been such an outpouring from those who worked with him.
With Achterberg himself now confirming reports that he’s set to depart, players from Liverpool’s past and present have been wishing him well.
John Achterberg confirms Liverpool exit
As is the way these days, Achterberg took to Instagram to announce an emotional farewell to the club he’s called home for a decade-and-a-half.
Posting at around 4am, it was a late night for the former Tranmere Rovers goalkeeper. In a long and heartfelt statement, Achterberg gives a special thanks to those at FSG and reserves some lovely words for Klopp in particular.
Obviously, the Dutchman came across a whole raft of players during his 15 years of service. And many of them could be seen in the comments section wishing Achterberg all the best.
“Johnny!!! All the best brother,” wrote Daniel Sturridge, with the likes of Simon Mignolet, Sander Westerveld, Charlie Adam and Fabio Aurelio all spotted, too.
Robbie Fowler was gone by the time Achto arrived in 2009, but the Reds icon was also one to send his well-wishes. “Good luck mate,” Fowler wrote, alongside an applause emoji.
Who else said goodbye to John Achterberg
Given that it was posted in the very early hours of the morning, it’s impressive just how many famous faces have already responded to Achterberg.
Current stars Caoimhin Kelleher, Stefan Bajcetic and Adrian send their love, as does Alisson Becker’s wife, Natalia, who thanked the 52-year-old.
Peter Gulacsi and Kamil Grabara are two goalkeepers who worked with Achterberg as youngsters at Liverpool. Although they never made it at Anfield they’ve gone on to enjoy success elsewhere and both are in there as well.
Loris Karius is another who didn’t have the best of times with the Reds, but he obviously places no blame on his coach, who receives some warm wishes.
Finally, current coaching staff members Jay Spearing and Claudio Taffarel pass on their best to a departing Reds legend, too. All the best Achto, you’ll be missed!