Former England star Ray Wilkins dies, aged 61

The former England midfielder, who won 84 caps for his country and captained the team 10 times, represented Chelsea, Manchester United, QPR and Rangers in a career that spanned 24 years.

After he retired from playing he moved into coaching and had stints as assistant manager at Chelsea as well as managing QPR, Fulham and Jordan.

He was working as a pundit before he fell ill and had been in a critical condition - in an induced coma - at St George's Hospital in South West London. He had also been battling ulcerative colitis in recent years but was given a clean bill of health last July following a double heart bypass.

"It is with great sadness we announce that Raymond Colin Wilkins passed away this morning," his family said in a statement on the St George's website.

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

"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 on Twitter.

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

Wilkins leaves behind his wife, Jackie, and two children, Ross and Jade.