Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas has paid tribute to Vic Akers after the former Gunners Ladies manager was awarded an OBE in the New Year's Honours List.
His contribution to women's football was officially recognised at the start of the month and Fabregas believes that Akers is worthy recipient of the OBE.
"I heard the fantastic news about Vic Akers being presented a royal award last week and I think it's amazing," Fabregas told the Official Arsenal Matchday Programme.
"He is such a good man. I have known him for seven seasons and he has always treated me like a son. He treats everyone with such respect and everyone loves him for that.
"When things don't go well, he always has something to say, or sometimes he doesn't say anything but he's there for you, putting an arm round you.
"He's a big help for us here, and he truly deserves this award for what he has done here over the years, for what he has done for the Ladies team, and for the man he is. Congratulations to him."