Chelsea and Manchester United lead tributes to former England captain Ray Wilkins

The 61 year old, who also played for AC Milan during his career, died in hospital in London on Wednesday

Former England and Manchester United midfielder Ray Wilkins has died at the age of 61 following a cardiac arrest, his former club Chelsea announced on Wednesday.

"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," the club said on Twitter.

Wilkins played 84 times for England between 1976 and 1986.

His playing career also took him to AC Milan, Paris Saint-Germain, Glasgow Rangers and Queens Park Rangers.

He coached Queens Park Rangers, Fulham and Jordan as well as becoming caretaker manager at Chelsea when Luiz Felipe Scolari was sacked in 2009.

Goodbye Ray, you will be missed: tonight we're gonna fight like you taught us!
Ciao Ray, ci mancherai: questa sera lotteremo su ogni pallone come avresti fatto tu!
RIP, Ray Wilkins 🙏🏻 pic.twitter.com/YLokjuXkvD

— AC Milan (@acmilan) April 4, 2018

Wilkins, who had been employed as a TV pundit, also worked alongside Guus Hiddink at Stamford Bridge and was assistant when Carlo Ancelotti took over.

Manchester United tweeted: "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."

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