Horrible news.
Former England international Ray Wilkins has died aged 61. The former player and coach had been in critical condition after suffering a heart attack on last week.
He is survived by his wife, Jackie, and two children, Ross and Jade.
The former Chelsea, Manchester United and AC Milan midfielder had been a popular pundit in the years leading up to his death, regularly appearing on Sky Sports and a host of radio programmes.
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
His family released a statement: “It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Colin Wilkins passed away this morning,” it read.
“We would like to thank St George’s staff for the amazing work they have done to care for our beloved Ray.
“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.”
“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,” Chelsea 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 PFA said in a statement. “The thoughts and condolences of everyone at the PFA are with his family and friends.”
Wilkins made 84 caps for England and played at two World Cups. He was a two-time player of the year for Chelsea and won the FA Cup with Manchester United in 1983, scoring a beautiful goal in the final (which you can see below).
After he hung up his boots, Wilkins managed Queens Park Rangers, Fulham and was the assistant manager to Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea when the Blues won the league and cup double in 2010.
