Craig Shakespeare: Former Leicester manager dies aged 60

Former Leicester manager Craig Shakespeare has died aged 60.

Shakespeare, who passed away peacefully on Thursday morning surrounded by his family, was diagnosed with cancer last year and said he was receiving treatment.

He was the assistant to Claudio Ranieri for Leicester's Premier League title-winning season in 2016.

Shakespeare took charge of the Foxes the following season after Ranieri's exit and oversaw their famous win over Sevilla to reach the Champions League quarter-final in their maiden outing in the competition.

He lasted less than a season before he too was dismissed. His other coaching roles included Hull, Watford, Aston Villa, Norwich and Everton. He was also assistant to Sam Allardyce during his one-game tenure as England boss.

A statement released on behalf of his family by the League Manager's Association read: "Whilst the family are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.

"The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person."

Shakespeare was also a player for Walsall, for whom he made more than 350 appearances, Sheffield Wednesday, West Brom and Grimsby before rejoining the Baggies first as a football in the community officer and then academy coach following his retirement.

Tributes pour in for 'Shakey'

Before Ranieri took over, Shakespeare worked under Nigel Pearson at Leicester as they pulled off 'The Great Escape' in 2015 - the season before their unlikely title win.

"He is without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I've had the privilege of calling my friend," said Pearson.

"Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend. You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle or memorable occasion will come to us.

"We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey."

Kasper Schmeichel has posted the below tribute to Shakespeare on Instagram.

"Devastated beyond words. An absolutely fantastic coach, one of the best I have ever seen, but more importantly, an incredible human being. He taught me so much, and I am just thankful to have worked with and known him."

LMA chairman Martin O'Neill paid tribute to Shakespeare's achievements.

"Craig's impact on the people he worked with was often spoken about by players, coaches and managers in the game," he said.

"Not only because his knowledge of football and coaching was so strong, but also because his personality and warmth made people feel important and that Craig truly cared about their development and success.

"The role he played in the success of his teams should be celebrated, especially at Leicester City, who rightfully see Craig as a club stalwart who played a significant part of that unbelievable Premier League winning season and many other wonderful times throughout his three spells at the club.

"My thoughts and prayers are with Craig's family and loved ones at this awfully sad time."

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