Former Liverpool and Arsenal star Ray Kennedy has died at the age of 70.
Kennedy, who was born in Seaton Delaval, a former pit village in Northumberland, also made 23 appearences for Hartlepool in the 1980s.
Kennedy, won three European Cups and five league titles with the reds, whom he joined from Arsenal in 1974, having done the league and FA Cup double with the Gunners three years earlier.
A personal highlight was his pivotal away goal in the 1981 European Cup semi-final second leg against Bayern Munich.
He was diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 1984 and a testimonial game between Liverpool and Arsenal was held in 1991.
Later that year he sold his medals and 17 England caps to help raise funds for his care.
Liverpool said in a statement on Twitter: “We are mourning legendary former player Ray Kennedy, who has passed away at the age of 70.
“The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Ray’s family and friends at this sad and difficult time.
“Rest in peace Ray, 1951-2021.”
Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge paid tribute to Kennedy, tweeting: “Yet another magnificent Ex LFC star has passed away folks.
“Ray Kennedy what a player and lovely bloke who suffered so much with Parkinson’s disease for most of his life. He will definitely never walk alone. RIP Ray ynwa.”
Former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson tweeted: “More sad news with the passing of Ray, what a great player and such a wonderful team-mate RIP pal YNWA.”
Ronnie Whelan described his former team-mate as “an absolute legend at both Arsenal and Liverpool”, adding on Twitter: “Learned so much by watching him play. RIP Ray.”
Kennedy scored three goals for England, his first coming on his debut against Wales in March 1976.
A tweet from the national team’s account read: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ray Kennedy at the age of 70. Ray won 17 caps for the #ThreeLions between 1976 and 1980, scoring three times.
“All of our thoughts go out to his family, friends and former clubs.”
Parkinson’s UK chief executive Caroline Rassell said in a statement: “Most young boys dream of becoming a footballer. Ray not only lived that dream but enjoyed incredible success doing so.
“Ray lived with Parkinson’s for a long time. He spoke honestly about the challenges he faced including dealing with some of the lesser known symptoms like hallucinations.
“Many people with the condition feel the need to hide their diagnosis, but Ray will have inspired so many people to talk openly about their own life with Parkinson’s. The part he played in raising awareness of the condition, like his football skills, will not be forgotten.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
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