LIVERPOOL legend Ian Callaghan says Merseyside football has lost a “true gentleman” following the death of Dave Hickson.

Callaghan made the first of his club record 857 appear- ances for the Reds alongside Hickson against Bristol Rovers in April 1960.

They were team-mates for the next 12 months and Hickson made a lasting impression on Callaghan – both on and off the pitch.

“Dave was a real legend and will be sadly missed,” he said.

“I was fortunate enough to play in the same Liverpool team as him in the early 60s and he was a great centre-forward.

“He was a fine goalscorer and he was fearless – he would put his head in anywhere.

“One thing I remember about Dave is his absolute joy at scoring goals. Even if he played well, he would be a bit down if he didn’t score – finding the net meant that much to him.

“He was rough and fiercely competitive on the field but such a gentle guy off it. He was a true gentleman

“In recent years I always looked forward to seeing him at Goodison in his ambassador role.

“He was always so chatty and friendly.”

Callaghan added: “Dave joining Liverpool was a big deal at the time as not many players moved between the clubs.

“But the fact that he served all three Merseyside clubs so well and was so admired by all supporters just underlined what a great player and lovely guy he was.”