Neal said: He has that passion that Liverpool people all have. It rubbed off on the rest of us adopted sons of the city. It made us realise how important winning the game was for Liverpool. We couldn't bear to lose.
"When I was manager at Bolton I brought Sammy back from Osasuna. He was worth his weight in gold. What a great example to the other players - the seniors and the youngsters.
"If they are to get into the top three every side needs its hardworking bees. And Sammy was one of those bees.
"He played just in front of me and we formed a really good partnership. I remember Bob Paisley telling him to mark Paul Breitnerwhen we played in the Munich Stadium and Sammy did a magnificent job.
"He was always the one who started the singing after we had picked up a trophy - all the old Liverpool songs. We had some great sing-a-longs. He created a really joyous arena. But he was always a very apologetic person. He always apologised for almost anything he did.
"He is a lovely natured person. I love him to bits. I'm a bit surprised he has decided to leave. It's a sad ending, but he can always come back to the club. I'm sure I speak on behalf of all Scousers when I wish Sammy all the best for the future."