Sir Alex Ferguson couldn't make it to the LMA awards as he continues his recovery following a health scare earlier this month.
The legendary Manchester United boss, 84, was taken to hospital by ambulance before kick-off at Old Trafford ahead of United's thrilling 3-2 victory against Liverpool.
It's a real shame the Scot had to miss such a prestigious evening in the football calendar.
The good news is that LMA chief executive Richard Bevan has confirmed Ferguson is on the mend following the incident.
Despite his absence, the iconic manager still managed to play a part in the ceremony's biggest moment.
England manager Thomas Tuchel stepped in to read Ferguson's heartfelt statement honouring Frank Lampard, who scooped the League Managers Association's manager of the year award.
Before delivering the letter, Tuchel took a moment to pay tribute to the absent legend.
He said: "It is of course, not the same without Sir Alex himself and we wish him all the best and a speedy recovery so that he is hopefully with us next year on stage again.
"Until then I have the privilege to read this letter to you, Frank."
It was a lovely touch that showed just how much Ferguson means to everyone in the game.
Ferguson's statement was full of warmth and admiration for what Lampard achieved in guiding Coventry back to the top flight.
The statement read: "Dear Frank, many congratulations on being named LMA manager of the year.
"You should be very proud of what you and your team have accomplished.
"Your personality as a manager and a leader is so clearly defined in how your team has played great football this season with confidence and self-belief and I have enjoyed watching you.
"I know from speaking with you that you have great humility and that important quality of a curious mind for learning.
"I'm sure winning this award will mean a great deal to you, Frank, and I wish you the best of luck in the Premier League next season."
🏆 Congratulations to Coventry City Head Coach Frank Lampard OBE on winning the Sky Bet Championship Manager of the Year award, following an outstanding campaign that has brought Premier League football back to the city of Coventry!
— LMA (@LMA_Managers) May 26, 2026
Congratulations, Frank! #LMAAnnualAwards pic.twitter.com/CHXyyB9Irn
Lampard took to the stage after seeing off competition from Arsenal's Mikel Arteta and Aston Villa's Unai Emery to claim the prize.
He said: "Wow. I moved from player to manager really quickly and I did not know much. Thank you to everyone who voted for me.
"British managers are pretty good. It is true. They are not idiots saying old school stuff.
"They are not dinosaurs. I have had messages from a lot of managers and I will drop Pep Guardiola in there and a lot of British managers know the score.
"It means a lot when managers like Steve Bruce and Sean Dyche send you a message after a game."
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