Legendary Manchester United manager has led the football world in paying respect to former England and Chelsea midfielder Ray Wilkins who died in hospital at the age of 61. Wilkins, who also played for Manchester United, AC Milan, Rangers and QPR, was being treated at St George’s Hospital in London following cardiac arrest.
England manager Gareth Southgate, who played alongside Wilkins at Crystal Palace said: “When he played with us you could immediately see that his technical ability to play the ball was phenomenal. In the modern game, those attributes would have been appreciated far more than they were at that time, so he really was a top, top player. He would have been one of the earliest to go abroad and play in the Italian league. At the time, it was at a really high level so being able to transition into a club like AC Milan and be as popular as he was there speaks volumes for his ability. It was really sad when I heard what happened at the weekend. It’s happened so suddenly and it’s tragic for Jackie and his family. Ray was a great ambassador for the game, a proud Englishman who loved playing for his country and an absolute gent – a class act.”
Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson: “Ray was a great football man who was well respected and liked by all who knew him and he always had a kind word and time for people. Ray was an impressive football talent and had a fantastic career representing some of the biggest clubs in the world. He will be missed by us all.”
Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard:Â “Devastated to hear the news that Ray Wilkins has passed away. He was a great player and an even greater man. Full of kindness and humility, with impeccable manners at all times. He had respect and time for everyone and to me he was a mentor and a friend. I’m not sure they make them like Ray anymore. You will be sorely missed fella.”
Ex-Liverpool defender Mark Lawrenson:Â “Was only two weeks ago I was with Ray in Brighton… Feel Empty – Much love to all the Family… Life is Cruel… RIP BUD…”
Former AC Milan defender Franco Baresi:Â “In these moments you never know what to say, but it was an honour to have you as a companion, you were special, a gentleman on the field and out. Thank you Ray Wilkins RIP.”
Ex-England striker Gary Lineker:Â “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 team-mate was more helpful and supportive. I’ll be forever grateful. Thoughts are with his family. #RIPRay.”
Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel:Â “Sad and choked to hear of the passing of Ray Wilkins. A true football person with a totally underestimated contribution to our sport. One of the best I’ve seen. My thoughts are with his family. Rest in peace.”
The club added: “Rest in peace, Ray, you will be dreadfully missed.” Wilkins’ family said: “It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Colin Wilkins passed away this morning. Ray leaves behind his loving wife, Jackie, daughter Jade, son Ross, and his beautiful grandchildren, Oliver, Frankie, Ava, Freddie, Jake and Archie. We are asking for privacy at this very difficult time.”
Photo Credit: Getty
