FERNANDO RICKSEN’S 2014 autobiography, ‘Fighting Spirit’ is unarguably one of the most powerful sports books ever written.
Now, following his tragic death last year from MND, a sequel has been penned by wife Veronika, and close friend Vincent de Vries, who collaborated with Fernando on the first book.
To be released on June 22, and with part of the proceeds going to the Rangers Charity Foundation, “Fernando Ricksen The Final Battle – Life With MND” tells the story of “a book about a lost fight and shattered hope” according to de Vries, who, upon Fernando’s request, kept a diary over many years.
Given just four months to live when he was diagnosed with MND in 2013, the book is an intimate portrait of his incredible battle with the condition which went on for six years, until he passed in September 2019.
The book also reveals why Fernando enrolled on a coaching course – his dream being to become the manager of Rangers.
“I don’t think they get it in Holland,” Fernando is quoted in the book. “They look down upon Scottish football anyway. To them, Rangers is a simple club and football in Scotland is about the Old Firm – and the Old Firm alone.
“Really, whoever says a thing like that, has never been to Glasgow, or at Ibrox. Once you’ve been there, you have a completely different opinion.
“And that’s why I started that trainers’ course. I want to re-live it. Not as a player, obviously, but as coach of the best football club in the world – Rangers.”
FERNANDO RICKSEN THE FINAL BATTLE – Life with MND will be available online from June 22, but reservations can be made now via www.fernandothebook.com. Part of the proceeds will go to The Rangers Charity Foundation.