Former England boss Graham Taylor dies aged 72
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Updated 12/01/2017 at 14:53 GMT
Former England manager Graham Taylor has died at the age of 72.
Graham Taylor during his time as England manager
Image credit: Imago
The news was confirmed by a statement from his family.
"With the greatest sadness, we have to announce that Graham passed away at his home early this morning of a suspected heart attack," the statement said. "The family are devastated by this sudden and totally unexpected loss.''
Taylor replaced Bobby Robson as England manager after the 1990 World Cup and led the country to Euro 92.
He landed the England job after enjoying huge success with Watford, whom he led through the league ladder from the bottom to the top flight, and Aston Villa, with whom he finished second in the First Division in 1990 after having won promotion.
His spell as England boss is often remembered for ructions with the press and his dismissal for failing to qualify for the 1994 World Cup, but Taylor remained one of the most respected managerial figures in English football thanks to his impressive club career.
The Football Association said it was "deeply saddened" to hear of Taylor's death.
Chairman Greg Clarke added: "On behalf of everyone at The FA, I am saddened to hear this news. My thoughts are with Graham’s family and friends. He was a hugely popular and respected figure in the game, not just in English football but in international circles as well.
I know Graham was very proud of his time as England manager and it was always great to see him at football grounds across the country. He had an exceptional knowledge and a love for the game that never diminished over the years. He will be much missed by us all at Wembley and St. George’s Park.
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Former England and Watford manager Graham Taylor attends the FA Cup semi-final football match between Crystal Palace and Watford
Image credit: AFP
After taking charge of England, he managed Wolverhampton Wanderers before returning to Watford (winning promotion to the Premier League) and Aston Villa again.
Villa and Watford tweeted to show their appreciation for Taylor.
Taylor, who made over 300 appearances during a player career with Grimsby and Lincoln, carved out a successful career as a pundit in his later years.
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