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Legendary England Goalkeeper Ray Clemence Dies Aged 72

Legendary England Goalkeeper Ray Clemence Dies Aged 72

The former Liverpool, Tottenham and England goalkeeper died 'peacefully', surrounded by loved ones

Jess Hardiman

Jess Hardiman

Former England goalkeeper Ray Clemence has sadly passed away at the age of 72, his family have confirmed.

The former Liverpool, Tottenham and England footballer died 'peacefully', having spent a long time 'fighting so hard'.

In a statement, the family said: "With great sadness, we write to let you know that Ray Clemence passed away peacefully today, surrounded by his loving family.

"After fighting so hard, for such a long time, he's now at peace and in no more pain.

"The family would like to say a huge thank you, for all the love and support that he's received over the years. He was loved so much by us all and he will never be forgotten."

Clemence in 2015.
PA

Paying tribute to the footballing star, Liverpool FC said it was 'deeply saddened' by the passing of the 'Reds legend'.

Looking back on his career with Liverpool, the club said in a statement: "The former goalkeeper, rated by many as the greatest ever to represent Liverpool between the posts, won practically everything - often multiple times - across his 13 years and 665 appearances in the first team."

It continued: "Undoubtedly one of, if not the, best goalkeepers in the world at the height of his powers, Clemence will never be forgotten by the Liverpool faithful.

"Only three men have ever played more games for the club; few have lifted more trophies; none can match his total of clean sheets. It's likely nobody ever will.

"A multitude of superlatives spring to mind when considering his Anfield career but it can be summed up in two simple words: goalkeeping excellence.

Clemence playing for England in 1980.
PA

"Clemence went on to play hundreds more games for Spurs across a seven-year spell at White Hart Lane and was awarded an MBE for his services to the sport in 1987.

"Having won 61 caps for his country as a player, he later joined the Football Association and England national team set-up as a coach before retiring in 2013.

"The thoughts of everybody at the club are with Ray's family and friends at this sad and difficult time."

Tottenham Hotspur also paid tribute to Celemence on Twitter, saying: "We are deeply saddened to report the passing of legendary former goalkeeper Ray Clemence.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Ray's family and many friends throughout the game at this sad time."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News, Football