Football world unites to mourn a true giant

Gareth Southgate

“I probably played more games with Ugo than anybody else in my career. He was a colossus on the pitch. We were prepared to put our bodies on the line for each other. Most importantly, he was a gentleman.”

Steve Gibson

“Ugo and Gareth Southgate were the rock on which Steve McClaren brought Middlesbrough its best period in its history. He wasn’t just a good footballer, he was a great man, warm, friendly and welcoming.”

Fabrice Muamba

“Yesterday I lost my friend [high jumper] Germaine Mason. This morning Ugo Ehiogu passed through heart attack. Cherish life, it’s promised to no one.”

Steve McClaren

“I’m absolutely devastated to hear the sad news about Ugo. What a sad loss he will be to football and, of course, his family. I remember Ugo as a gentle giant of a man off the field, but a real warrior on it.”

Paul Merson (right)

“Billy Joel sings that song Only

The Good Die Young and that is Ugo. He was a top player, a top bloke and a good friend as well. He was always winding me up, telling me Tottenham had some good players coming through...”

Greg Clarke (FA)

“We’re devastated to hear the news that Ugo Ehiogu has passed away. He was close to many at Wembley and St George’s Park through his England connections – both as a player and as a coach.”

Ryan Mason

“Words cannot explain how devastated I am to hear the news of Ugo. He had a huge influence on the young lads at Spurs while I was there, and I can’t speak highly enough of him.”

Lee Hendrie

“This is an absolute shock, to think this could happen to a man of his fitness and age. It is devastating, crazy. He was such a character, bubbly and would help anyone. He was a great guy to have around.”