Ray Wilkins dead: Tributes pour in from former Chelsea, Man Utd, England

Tributes have poured in for former England captain Ray Wilkins following his tragic death aged 61 on Wednesday.

Wilkins began his career at Chelsea before moving to Manchester United and AC Milan, playing for 11 clubs in a career that spanned 24 years and four countries.

He earned 84 England caps over a 10-year international career and captained the Three Lions on 10 occasions before moving into coaching where he was manager at QPR, Fulham and Jordan.

He also held assistant managerial posts at a number of clubs including twice at his beloved Chelsea (both times stepping in as caretaker at one point), Watford, Millwall Fulham, Aston Villa and England under-21s and worked as a pundit for Sky Sports and TalkSPORT.

Chelsea led the tributes to their former player and manager, saying: “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.”

Manchester United also sent their best wishes to the family, tweeting:  “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.”

England’s official Twitter account wrote: “We’re devastated to hear the news that Ray Wilkins has passed away at the age of 61. Wilkins made 84 appearances for the #ThreeLions, and was assistant manager of our Under-21s between 2004 and 2007. We will miss you, Ray.”