Former Liverpool, Tottenham and England goalkeeper Ray Clemence, who won three European Cups and 61 caps, in a trophy-laden career, has died at the age of 72
- Former England goalkeeper Ray Clemence has died at the age of 72
- Clemence played for Liverpool and Tottenham during an illustrious career
- He won 61 caps and was arguably one of the greatest GK's of his generation
- England players will wear armbands during Nations League game in Belgium
- Jamie Carragher and Piers Morgan are among those paying tribute to Clemence
Former Liverpool, Tottenham and England goalkeeper Ray Clemence has died at the age of 72, the Football Association has announced.
Clemence, who won three European Cups and five First Division titles during a trophy-laden spell at Anfield, was arguably one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation.
He won 61 England caps, which would undoubtedly have been many more had he not been competing with Peter Shilton, who accumulated 125, for the number one shirt.
Former Liverpool, Tottenham and England goalkeeper Ray Clemence has died at the age of 72
Clemence was arguably one of the greatest goalkeepers of his generation
He won 61 England caps and won three European Cups and five First Division titlesThe Football Association released a statement: 'With great sadness, we write to let you know that Ray Clemence passed away peacefully today, surrounded by his loving family,' said a statement from the Clemence 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 was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2005.
England players will now wear black armbands during their Nations League game in Belgium on Sunday evening and will pay tribute to Clemence before Wednesday's match against Iceland match at Wembley.
An £18,000 signing from Scunthorpe by Bill Shankly, Clemence was a key member of the Liverpool team which dominated Europe between 1977 and 1981, and also picked up two UEFA Cups, an FA Cup and the League Cup.
Liverpool paid tribute to their former keeper and Kop legend, as they tweeted: 'We're deeply saddened by the passing of one of the greatest ever goalkeepers, Ray Clemence.
'The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with Ray's family and many friends.
'Rest in peace, Ray Clemence 1948-2020.'
Sir Kenny Dalglish described Clemence as a "true legend".
He added on Twitter: "Clem was a fantastic teammate and great to be around. I will never forget how he helped me to settle in at Anfield. Our thoughts are with the Clemence family. RIP Clem."
Liverpool legend and Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher paid tribute to Clemence, tweeting: RIP Ray Clemence. An LFC giant who was also a giant of a man. #YNWA'
Reds ambassador and ex-striker Ian Rush posted: 'RIP Ray Clemence, we have lost a true legend! It was an honour to know you and to get the chance to play with you! My thoughts and prayers are with your family'
Piers Morgan also tweeted: 'More sad news today.. RIP Ray Clemence, 72. One of the greatest goalkeepers in history: 1000+ games incl 61 caps for England, 5 League titles, 3 European Cups, 3 UEFA Cups, 2 FA Cups. Incredible career, and an absolute gentleman.'
Liverpool paid tribute to their former keeper and Kop legend following the news of his death
After his playing days, Clemence joined the England coaching set-up as a goalkeeper coach
At Tottenham, whom he joined in 1981 aged 32 for a fee of £300,000, he won another UEFA Cup and FA Cup.
After his playing days, Clemence joined the England coaching set-up as he joined forces with former Spurs team-mate and then Three Lions boss Glenn Hoddle in 1996.
He continued to be England's goalkeeping coach under Kevin Keegan, Sven-Goran Eriksson and Steve McClaren until Fabio Capello took charge.
He returned to the national team backroom staff when Roy Hodgson took over and oversaw the goalkeepers at Euro 2012 before retiring one year later.
Clemence is survived by his wife Veronica, son Stephen - a former player himself and now a coach - and daughters Sarah and Julie.
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