Tributes pour in for former England ace

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for former Chelsea captain Ray Wilkins, who died in hospital yesterday following a cardiac arrest. He was 61.

Wilkins, who won 84 England caps, had been treated in St George’s Hospital in Tooting, south-west London since Friday.

A statement from Chelsea read: “Everybody associated with Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of our former player, captain and assistant coach, Ray Wilkins. Rest in peace, Ray, you will be dreadfully missed.”

Wilkins had carried out media duties on talkSPORT and Sky Sports - he was a regular pundit on both platforms - shortly before suffering the cardiac arrest.

He became the fourth player sent off while playing for England when he was dismissed during the 1986 World Cup finals in Mexico in a game against Morocco.

Wilkins - known in the game by his childhood nickname ‘Butch’ - played for 11 clubs and was on the coaching staff of several more, but is commonly associated with Chelsea.

The midfielder started his career there and spent six years with the Blues, while also having numerous stints as assistant manager. On one occasion, he led the side on a caretaker basis.

During his career as a player, Wilkins won the FA Cup with Manchester United in

1983, scoring a memorable goal in the first tie against Brighton at Wembley which ended 2-2. He also won the Scottish title with Rangers in 1989.

Wilkins’ family said: “It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Colin Wilkins passed away.

“We would also like to say thank you for the many goodwill messages we have received from Ray’s friends, colleagues, and members of the public.

“Ray leaves behind his loving wife, Jackie, daughter Jade, son Ross, and his beautiful grandchildren, Oliver, Frankie, Ava, Freddie, Jake and Archie.

“We are asking for privacy at this very difficult time.”

Wilkins’ former England teammates took to Twitter to pay their respects.

Gary Lineker said: “Deeply saddened to hear that Ray Wilkins has passed away. A wonderful footballer and a delightful man. It was a pleasure to have played alongside him with England. No teammate was more helpful and supportive. I’ll be forever grateful. Thoughts are with his family. £RIPRay”

Peter Shilton posted: “I’m devastated to receive this sad news of my former teammate Ray Wilkins a great footballer and well respected by the players. RIP, a very sad day for me – only laughing together a few weeks ago”

Trevor Steven tweeted: “Sad beyond belief . RIP Ray.”