Pictured
Laid to rest

Ugo Ehiogu’s funeral sees football stars past and present pay tribute to ex-England star who died aged just 44

The former Tottenham coach tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack at Spurs' training ground last month

FRIENDS and family of the late Ugo Ehiogu came together to say their final farewells to the ex-England defender in an emotional service today.

The former Tottenham Under-23 coach tragically passed away last month after suffering a fatal heart attack at Spurs' training centre.

Ugo Ehiogu's hearse makes its way through the streets of north London this afternoon as friends and family gathered to mourn togetherCredit: Splash News
An order of service is held by an attendee of Ugo Ehiogu's funeral today at St Michael's in north London, which described the funeral as "A Service of Thanksgiving"Credit: Eroteme
A floral arrangement, accompanied with a message from a loved one, was placed next to the coffin as it made its way towards the serviceCredit: Splash News
Gemma was seen in tears as the world of football rallied around her family to provide support today during the serviceCredit: Eroteme
Former England ace Andy Cole wipes away tears outside the funeral of Ugo todayCredit: Eroteme

A popular figure within the game and among fans, East London-born Ehiogu began his playing career at West Brom before Ron Atkinson signed him for Midland rivals Aston Villa for £40,000 in 1991.

He was part of the Villa side that won the 1996 League Cup in a 3-0 victory over Leeds.

Ehiogu then became Middlesbrough's most expensive ever signing when he completed a £8million move to the Riverside in 2000.

He then enjoyed spells at Leeds on-loan, Rangers and Sheffield United before hanging up his boots and moving into coaching.

England boss Gareth Southgate, who played with Ugo Ehiogu at Middlesbrough and Aston Villa, attended the serviceCredit: Eroteme
Arsenal legend and Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson was among the names to attend the service this afternoonCredit: Eroteme
Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright was also in attendanceCredit: Eroteme
Tim Sherwood, who recently managed Tottenham, watched Ugo Ehiogu be laid to rest with his former colleaguesCredit: PA:Press Association
Andy Cole, who starred for Manchester United in the 1999 Treble season, paid his respects to the former the Aston Villa manCredit: Eroteme
Andy Cole greets a solemn-looking Dwight Yorke, his old Manchester United and Blackburn team mate, outside the churchCredit: Eroteme

But tragedy struck on Friday, April 21, when he suffered a heart attack at the Tottenham training ground.

He received instant medical treatment on site before being transferred to hospital where doctors were unable to save the 44-year-old.

He left behind his wife, Gemma, and their two children.

The service, which was attended by friends from the footballing world, was held at St Michael's church, Highgate, North London on Wednesday.

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England boss Gareth Southgate, who played alongside Ehiogu at Middlesbrough and Aston Villa was in attendance alongside former team-mate Andy Townsend and ex-Arsenal striker Ian Wright.

Former Villa boss Ron Atkinson, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Darren Bent, Dion Dublin, Tim Sherwood and Les Ferdinand all paid their respects.

Ron Atkinson, who managed both Manchester United and Aston Villa during his post-playing career, chats to old pals outside the churchCredit: Eroteme
Former Chelsea striker Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink attended the service in north London this afternoonCredit: Eroteme

Tributes from across the footballing world were paid to Ehiogu following the announcement of his death.

His ex-club Aston Villa said in a statement: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former defender Ugo Ehiogu.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this terribly sad time."

Ex-England star Rio Ferdinand added: "Can’t believe the news that Ugo Ehiogu has passed away.

"Calm & warming vibe when in his company. My heart goes out to his family! #RIPUgo."

And Leeds United, where he played six games on loan in the 2006/07 season, added: "We are saddened to learn of the passing of former #LUFC defender Ugo Ehiogu.

"Our thoughts are with all of his friends and family."

 

 

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