Ray Wilkins dead aged 61: Chelsea, Man Utd and England former ace passes away after heart attack

ENGLAND football legend Ray Wilkins has died in hospital aged 61.

The former Chelsea coach was placed in an induced coma after suffering a heart attack at his home in Cobham, Surrey, last week.

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Wilkins, who enjoyed spells as a player at Chelsea, Manchester United and AC Milan, passed away today at St George's Hospital in London.

He had battled poor health including ulcerative colitis over the last few years, but got the all-clear after a double heart bypass operation last July.

Confirming his passing, his son Ross, 36, said: “Dad has unfortunately passed away.”

St George's Hospital issued a statement on behalf of the family.

"It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Colin Wilkins passed away this morning.

"We would like to thank St George's staff for the amazing work they have done to care for our beloved Ray.

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"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.

"We are asking for privacy at this very difficult time."

While, the PFA said on Twitter: "It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we have learnt that former England midfielder Ray Wilkins has passed away, aged 61.

"The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the PFA are with his family and friends."

Wilkins, known affectionately as "Butch", played 84 times for England, captaining 10 times and scoring three goals.

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At international level, one of Wilkins' most famous moments came in 1986 when he became the first England player to be sent off in a World Cup after throwing the ball at a referee during a group game against Morocco.

He won the FA Cup with United in 1982, during 160-game spell for the Red Devils, but is mostly remembered for his time with the Blues where he became captain at the tender age of 18.

Wilkins made 170 appearances for Chelsea and won the Player of the Year award in 1976 and 1977.

He returned to Stamford Bridge as a coach and would go on to assist Carlo Ancelotti to the Premier League title and FA Cup double in the 2009/10 campaign.

A statement from Chelsea read: "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."

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As well as Chelsea and Man United, Wilkins also played for a host of clubs including Queens Park Rangers, Paris Saint Germain, Rangers, where he won a Scottish league title in 1989, Leyton Orient and Crystal Palace.

He went on to coach QPR, Aston Villa and Fulham, as well as having a brief spell in charge of Jordan's national team.

As well as coaching, Wilkins also turned his hand to punditry after his playing days were over, appearing on TalkSport and Sky Sports.

Heartfelt tributes from the football community have flooded in to a legend of the English game.

David Beckham wrote:"Incredibly sad to wake up to the news that Ray has passed away.

"A man that I’ve always looked up to as a United fan and a player, plus he wore our countries shirt with pride.

"You will be sadly missed! Our thoughts are with your family and friends."

Frank Lampard, who played under Wilkins at Chelsea, wrote: "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."

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Paul Gascoigne posted: "Such a great loss, just heard he’s just passed away, he was such a gentleman an unbelievable player.

"1st player to succeed playing in Italy, I remember playing against him, everyone was saying it’s either him or me for ENGLAND and I didn’t even get a touch, he was brilliant RIP Ray xx"

Gary Lineker added: "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"

Alan Shearer posted: "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"

Ex Man United keeper Peter Schmeichel‏ wrote: "Sad and chocked 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."

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While Wilkins' former club AC Milan, where he played for three years, tweeted: "Goodbye Ray, you will be missed: tonight we're gonna fight like you taught us!"

Aston Villa wrote: "Everybody associated with Aston Villa Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of our former assistant manager, Ray Wilkins. Rest in peace, Ray."

Ray Wilkins is survived by his wife, Jackie, two children and several grandchildren.

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