Former Chelsea player and manager John Hollins has died aged 76, the club has announced.
Hollins made almost 600 appearances as a player for the club, scoring 64 times during his two spells at Stamford Bridge between 1963 and 1984.
He was appointed as manager in 1985, a position he held for three years.
“He was a hero to the fans of this club, and very much that to me,” Chelsea board member Daniel Finkelstein said.
“He was at the heart of one of Chelsea’s greatest teams and, as well as contributing to its trophy success, he expressed its spirit.
“He lifted up the team with his play and lit up the Bridge with his smile. He gave a life of service to this club, as a player, as a manager and as a matchday ambassador. He was greatly loved and will be much missed.”
More to follow.
