R.I.P - Ray Wilkins (Gentleman of Football)
 

Former England captain Ray Wilkins dies aged 61 (April 04 2018)

Former England midfielder Ray Wilkins has died at the age of 61, his former club Chelsea have announced.

Former Chelsea captain Ray Wilkins has died in hospital following a cardiac arrest. He was 61.

Wilkins, who won 84 England caps, had been treated in St George's Hospital in Tooting, south-west London since Friday.

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."

Wilkins had carried out media duties on talkSPORT and Sky Sports - he was a regular pundit on both platforms - shortly before suffering the cardiac arrest, and was taken to St George's Hospital on Friday.

He became the fourth player sent off while playing for England when he was dismissed during the 1986 World Cup finals in Mexico in a game against Morocco.

Wilkins - known in the game by his childhood nickname 'Butch' - played for 11 clubs and was on the coaching staff of several more, but is commonly associated with Chelsea.

The midfielder started his career there and spent six years with the Blues, while also having numerous stints as assistant manager. On one occasion, he led the side on a caretaker basis.

During his career as a player, Wilkins won the FA Cup with Manchester United in 1983, scoring a memorable goal in the first tie against Brighton at Wembley, which ended 2-2. He also won the Scottish title with Rangers in 1989.

I had the pleasure of a night out with him in 1988 when he was at Rangers and what a down to earth bloke he was.

A real footballer who gave his all for every club he played for.


RIP Butch..o:)