Former Chelsea, Manchester United and Rangers legend Ray Wilkins dies aged 61

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

He had suffered a cardiac arrest last week, and was put into a coma by doctors.
He sadly passed away in hospital earlier today.

A statement released by his family said: “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.”

Ray Wilkins 1976

Nicknamed ‘Butch’, Wilkins played for 11 clubs and was on the coaching staff of several more.

The midfielder started his career at Chelsea and became a club legend in his six years as a player with the Blues.

He also had numerous stints at Stamford Bridge as assistant manager and on one occasion, he led the side on a caretaker basis.

Ray Wilkins In Action For Rangers 1988

Wilkins moved to Manchester United in 1979 and went on to make 160 appearances for the club.

The former England captain also had spells north of the border, spending two years at Rangers and also starring for Hibs.

While at Ibrox, he won the league title and league cup, and also netted a memorable Old Firm goal against Celtic.

Was Assistant To Carlo Ancelloti At Chelsea 

Everybody associated with Chelsea Footba Club is devastated to learn of the passing o former player, captain and assistant coach, Wilkins. Rest in peace, Ray, you will be dreadfully missed.

After hanging up his boots, Wilkins became involved in coaching and was part of the backroom staff at clubs including Chelsea, Fulham and Aston Villa.
More recently, Wilkins carried out media duties on talkSPORT and Sky Sports – he was a regular pundit on both platforms – shortly before suffering the cardiac arrest.
Wilkins was assistant manager to Carlo Ancelotti at Chelsea (Nick Potts/PA Wire.
Since news of his death broke, tributes have flooded in for a well-respected figure in the world of football.

Gary Lineker tweeted:
“Deeply saddened to hear that Ray Wilkins has passed away. A wonderful footballer and a delightful man.
“It was a pleasure to have played alongside him with England. No teammate was more helpful and supportive. I’ll be forever grateful. Thoughts are with his family.”

Manchester United tweeted:
"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Manchester United are with the family, frie and colleagues of our former midfielder Ra Wilkins, following his tragic passing."

Trevor Steven said:
“Sad beyond belief . RIP Ray. My first captain for the England team. Thoughts are with Jackie and the family.”

Peter Shilton tweeted:
“I’m devastated to receive this sad news of my former team mate Ray Wilkins a great footballer and well respected by the players rip a very sad day for me only laughing together a few weeks ago”

BBC Sport presenter Gabby Logan said:
“So sorry to hear that Ray Wilkins has died. More than a very good footballer, a kind and generous man who always made me feel so welcome in the football family when I started working in the industry. My thoughts are with his family.”

Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel wrote:
“A true football person with a totally underestimated contribution to our sport. One of the best I’ve seen. My thought are with his family. Rest in peace.”