The family of the former England manager, Graham Taylor, announced on Thursday afternoon that he has died at the age of 72.
Taylor, who grew up in Scunthorpe, North Lincolnshire, took charge of England between 1990 and 1993.
"With the greatest sadness, we have to announce that Graham passed away at his home early this morning of a suspected heart attack," his family said in a statement.
"The family are devastated by this sudden and totally unexpected loss."
Tributes have come pouring out on Twitter and across social media from across the football community to honour the former Aston Villa and Watford manager.
Off The Ball presenter Ger Gilroy remembered his on-air relationship with Taylor after the news was announced.
"We had the real privilege of working with Graham Taylor over a period of several years on Off the Ball and he was unfailingly one of the nicest people we have ever dealt with," Gilroy said.
"I particularly remember one FA Cup weekend where we did a sports movies and documentaries special when we had Graham on to talk about Do I Not Like That, the documentary made about his time in charge of England. Although it was clearly difficult subject matter for him to revisit he was incredibly candid, self-deprecating and funny about a period of his career that had ended in such public failure.
"We also did another great piece with Graham and Paul McGrath where they recounted their time at Aston Villa when Graham effectively saved the career of one of our greatest ever players, so it's fair to say that Irish football will always owe Graham Taylor a debt."
Devestated to hear of Graham's sad passing, what a gentleman. In my darkest days himself and Rita were always there for me #RipGrahamAHero
— Paul McGrath (@Paulmcgrath5) January 12, 2017
I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear about Graham's passing. He was like a brother to me. I love you Graham. I will miss you very much. pic.twitter.com/FD8lEt7pQS
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) January 12, 2017
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former @England manager Graham Taylor.
— The FA (@FA) January 12, 2017
Completely shocked by news of Graham Taylor. Always held him in the very highest regard - the man who gave me my first @england cap. So sad.
— Alan Shearer (@alanshearer) January 12, 2017
So sad to hear the news of Graham Taylor's passing, always fascinating, knowledgeable and generous with his time when I met him.
— Steve Parish (@CEO4TAG) January 12, 2017
Graham Taylor: 1944-2017. Our thoughts are with your family. RIP. pic.twitter.com/arVBChrvnP
— Lincoln City FC (@LincolnCity_FC) January 12, 2017
RIP graham Taylor ðŸ™ðŸ¾.
— Andrew Cole (@vancole9) January 12, 2017
RIP Graham Taylor
Gentleman and top bloke— Neville Southall (@NevilleSouthall) January 12, 2017
Really sad news to hear the news that Graham Taylor has passed away. He gave me my England debut against France.
Lovely man... RIP— Rob Jones (@RobjonesLFC2) January 12, 2017
Saddened to hear the news that Graham Taylor has died, a man who loved his football & achieved his ultimate goal. Only 72 years of age RIP
— Chris Kamara (@chris_kammy) January 12, 2017
Very sad to hear the news about Graham Taylor. A @WatfordFC legend and an absolute gentleman ðŸ™ðŸ¾
— Ashley Young (@youngy18) January 12, 2017
Sad sad news that my old and last manager at #AVFC Graham Taylor has passed away. Deepest condolences to all of Graham's family and friends.
— Ian Taylor (@IanTaylor7) January 12, 2017
We are deeply saddened today by news of the death of our former manager Graham Taylor. RIP Graham. #AVFC pic.twitter.com/QCU1cCzCxN
— Aston Villa FC (@AVFCOfficial) January 12, 2017
Everyone at #watfordfc is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our most successful manager. We love you, Graham Taylor. #thankyouGT
— Watford FC (@WatfordFC) January 12, 2017
The thoughts of everyone at Liverpool Football Club are with the family and friends of Graham Taylor.
May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/YOiufihrdc
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) January 12, 2017
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