Former England and Chelsea midfielder Ray Wilkins has died in hospital at the age of 61 after battling cardiac arrest.
Wilkins, who also played for Manchester United, AC Milan, Rangers and QPR, was being treated at St George’s Hospital in London following a cardiac arrest.
A Chelsea statement said the club are “devastated to learn of the passing of our former player, captain and assistant coach”.
It added: “Rest in peace, Ray, you will be dreadfully missed.”
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Wilkins’ family said they wanted to “thank St George’s staff for the amazing work they have done to care for our beloved Ray”.
They added: “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.”
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. pic.twitter.com/cSDhloOPDZ
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 4, 2018
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. pic.twitter.com/38w2MW86eg
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) April 4, 2018
Goodbye Ray, you will be missed: tonight we're gonna fight like you taught us!
Ciao Ray, ci mancherai: questa sera lotteremo su ogni pallone come avresti fatto tu!
RIP, Ray Wilkins ???????? pic.twitter.com/YLokjuXkvD— AC Milan (@acmilan) April 4, 2018
???? Everyone at #QPR is devastated to learn of the passing of R's legend Ray Wilkins.
Our thoughts are with Ray's family and friends.#RIPRay pic.twitter.com/45PsWkaikM
— QPR FC (@QPRFC) April 4, 2018
Rest in Peace Ray Wilkins ⚽️ #RayWilkins pic.twitter.com/YwdV9uYZMI
— EditinKing Boxing ???? (@EditinKing) April 4, 2018
