REGIS FAMILY ‘MOVED’ BY FOOTBALL TRIBUTES

PREMIER LEAGUE clubs will hold a minute’s applause and players will wear black armbands in tribute to former West Brom and England star Cyrille Regis. Regis – a pioneer for black footballers in the game – died last Sunday, aged 59. The Premier League yesterday finally bowed to mounting pressure to organise a tribute this weekend amid a request

from the PFA. Regis’s widow Julia said: “This gesture from the Premier League is deeply moving and appreciated.

“We are overwhelmed by the love and support we have received following the loss of Cyrille.

“It has been hugely comforting for all of the family. Every message has been important to us.

“We were always so proud of Cyrille and it is comforting to know that the wider game and public feel the same way.”

A statement from Premier League said: ”We recognise the important career of Cyrille Regis, and his special role as a trailblazer for black players in modern English football.”