Shock as Ugo dies at just 44
Ugo ‘a colossus’, says Southgate
STUNNED England boss Gareth Southgate led tributes yesterday to ex Premier League star Ugo Ehiogu who has died suddenly aged 44.
Defender Ehiogu, who played for England, leaves a wife and two kids.
ENGLAND boss Gareth Southgate last night described tragic Premier League star Ugo Ehiogu as a “colossus and a gentleman”.
The former England defender, 44, died early yesterday after suffering a heart attack on Thursday at Tottenham’s training centre, where he was in charge of the under- 23 side.
Hundreds of tributes were paid to the former Aston Villa, Middlesbrough, West Brom, Leeds United, Sheffield United and Rangers star.
Southgate, an ex-team-mate at Villa and Boro, said he was stunned and that his thoughts were with Ugo’s wife Gemma and his two children.
He added: “I probably played more games with Ugo than anybody else in my career, and while, in many ways he was a gentle giant away from football, he was a colossus on the pitch.
“Ugo was a credit to football, a credit to his family and he will be missed by everybody who was lucky enough to know him.”
TV pundit Andy Townsend, who played with Ugo in the Villa side that won the League Cup in 1996, added: “I’m absolutely shocked. He was a player that every team would like to have at the back.”
Ugo signed for Middlesbrough in 2000 and helped them win the 2004 League Cup. Club chairman Steve Gibson said: “He wasn’t just a good footballer, he was a great man.”
Current Villa boss Steve Bruce, who faced Ugo as a player, added last night: “We are all shocked and devastated. He was a great player.”
The England defender’s last tweet went viral after his death was announced as saddened fans reacted to the news.
His message said: “Gave a homeless girl £10 last night in Dalston. She didn’t ask or beg.
“Random impulsive act from me. Not gonna lie. Felt good. #dosomethingkind.”
Thousands of people retweeted the message and encouraged others to follow his example in his honour.
Villa will hold a minute’s applause tomorrow ahead of their Championship clash against Birmingham City. Tottenham players will also pay their respects during the FA Cup semifinal against Chelsea.