Derbies united as they remember Ray

FANS at the Premier League’s two big derbies paid special tributes to the late Ray Wilkins yesterday.

A minute’s applause rang around the Etihad Stadium as one of Wilkins’ former clubs – Manchester United – took on neighbour’s City in yesterday’s late kick-off.

There was a similar outpouring of emotion from the stands at Goodison Park where Everton and Liverpool fans remembered the former England player.

Such sentiments echoed around all grounds in England and at Ibrox in Scotland for the former Rangers midfielder.

Closely associated with Chelsea, Wilkins will be remembered at Stamford Bridge tomorrow when West Ham visit and Blues defender Cesar Azpilicueta recalled the former assistant manager fondly.

‘I think the way he supported and loved the club was fantastic and, as well as a minute’s applause, I think winning the game would be the best way to say thanks to him and his family for everything he has done for Chelsea,’ he said.