Tributes to hero, idol & pioneer

GARY LINEKER

“Saddened to hear that Cyrille Regis has passed away. A tremendous striker and fine man whose legacy goes beyond the game, helping to pave a way for black footballers in this country.”

ALAN SHEARER

“What a centre-forward! One of my earliest football memories was walking into WBA for a trial as a 13 year old, seeing Cyrille Regis and being in awe of him. RIP big man.”

“Devastated. My hero, my pioneer, the man behind the reason I wanted to play football has passed away.”

MARK BRIGHT

“He was more than just a footballer, he blazed a trail for every black player who followed him. A humble man and a great man.”

BRIAN DEANE

“Cyrille Regis started the dream for me and many others. Genuine honour to have played on same pitch as him.”

“From my very first visit to England I familiarised myself with the black sportsmen that were doing the hard yards to create a better future for all of us. Cyrille Regis was someone I looked up to. His

legacy will live on.”

RUUD GULLIT

“Thanks #cyrilleregis for paving the way for all of us.”

GARETH BALE

“Tragic news about Cyrille Regis. Helped me a lot when I was younger, a great man!”

DION DUBLIN

“Devastated, sad, gutted and totally shocked by news Cyrille Regis has died. My ALL TIME footballing hero.”

RIO FERDINAND

“RIP Cyrille Regis. A great man. Helped set the foundations for others. Always remembered.”