London April 4 (IANS) English football great Ray Wilkins died at the age of 61 on Wednesday five days after being admitted to a hospital following a cardiac arrest.
Wilkins former club Chelsea said: "Everybody associated with Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of our former player captain and assistant coach Ray Wilkins at the age of 61.
"Ray was a popular and much-loved figure among fans players and staff throughout his long association with the club.
"Our thoughts are with Ray s wife Jackie children Ross and Jade and the rest of his family at this sad time."
Wilkins enjoyed his best days in club football playing for Chelsea (1973-79) Manchester United (1979-94) AC Milan (1984-87) and Queens Park Rangers (1989-94).
Playing as a midfielder Wilkins represented England 84 times between 1976 and 1986.
Several former and current footballers paid their tributes to Wilkins.
His former England teammate Gary Linekar wrote on Twitter: "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."
Manchester United tweeted: "The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Manchester United are with the family friends and colleagues of our former midfielder Ray Wilkins following his tragic passing."
AC Milan tweeted: "Goodbye Ray you will be missed: tonight we re gonna fight like you taught us!"
Wilkins former national teammate Alan Shearer said: "So sad to hear the news about Ray Wilkins. He lived for and loved football. I was lucky enough to have worked with him and he was always a true gentleman. He will be sorely missed by so many. #RIPRay."
Former AC Milan and Italy captain Franco Baresi said "it was an honor to have had you as a companion you were special a gentleman in the field and out. Thanks Ray Wilkins RIP".
Wilkins Milan teammate and former Dutch midfielder Ruud Gullit said: "#RIP #RayWilkins i will miss you my friend."
Former Chelsea head coach Carlo Ancelotti who worked with Wilkins at the London club s coaching staff said: "Today is a very sad day we have lost a fantastic person and a good friend. It was a pleasure to work with you Ray. All of my best wishes go to Jackie Jade and Ross. RIP."
--IANS
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