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From the Echo
Merseyside football has been paying tribute to Everton scout Sid Benson who has died aged 74.
The prolific talent-spotter is credited with unearthing at least a dozen Premier League players including bringing Ross Barkley and Leighton Baines - first time around - to the Blues.
England midfielder Barkley paid tribute to his former mentor on social media on Wednesday night, tweeting: "Sad to hear Sid Benson has passed away, only spoke to him last night.
"Rest in peace mate, thanks for everything."
Everton legend Kevin Sheedy said: "Really sad news about Sid Benson. Will be sorely missed. RIP Sid," while former Goodison striker Francis Jeffers added: "No words can describe the sadness today, Sid you are an absolute legend I can't thank you enough for all you did for me. RIP mate."
In an interview from a couple of years ago, Benson recalled watching Barkley play for the first time
He said: "You're watching this kid who is running the game and your first thought is 'there is no way he's not been signed up already.'
"I was amazed when I was told he was an under-11 playing for the under-12s. As soon as I found out he was available I couldn't get him to Everton quick enough.
Former Liverpool players also tribute to Mr Benson, with Reds legend Robbie Fowler saying on Twitter: "Very saddened to hear Sid Benson has passed away. Everton scout and a true football man, a friend of many, red and blue. RIP pal."
Merseyside football has been paying tribute to Everton scout Sid Benson who has died aged 74.
The prolific talent-spotter is credited with unearthing at least a dozen Premier League players including bringing Ross Barkley and Leighton Baines - first time around - to the Blues.
England midfielder Barkley paid tribute to his former mentor on social media on Wednesday night, tweeting: "Sad to hear Sid Benson has passed away, only spoke to him last night.
"Rest in peace mate, thanks for everything."
Everton legend Kevin Sheedy said: "Really sad news about Sid Benson. Will be sorely missed. RIP Sid," while former Goodison striker Francis Jeffers added: "No words can describe the sadness today, Sid you are an absolute legend I can't thank you enough for all you did for me. RIP mate."
In an interview from a couple of years ago, Benson recalled watching Barkley play for the first time
He said: "You're watching this kid who is running the game and your first thought is 'there is no way he's not been signed up already.'
"I was amazed when I was told he was an under-11 playing for the under-12s. As soon as I found out he was available I couldn't get him to Everton quick enough.
Former Liverpool players also tribute to Mr Benson, with Reds legend Robbie Fowler saying on Twitter: "Very saddened to hear Sid Benson has passed away. Everton scout and a true football man, a friend of many, red and blue. RIP pal."
