Tributes flood in for Jimmy Hill: 'Most important man in English football history'

The former Match of the Day presenter, one of English football's most influential individuals, was first diagnosed with the disease in 2008.

In a statement, his agent, Jane Morgan, said: "It is with great sadness that Bryony Hill and the children of Jimmy Hill have announced that Jimmy passed away peacefully aged 87 after a long battle with Alzheimer's disease. Bryony was beside him."

Tony Hall, the BBC's director general, added: "For generations of fans Jimmy Hill was an authoritative voice as both a presenter and analyst.

"He was committed to innovation in every aspect of the game, including broadcasting and always believed supporters came first. His influence lives on in the programmes we enjoy today."

As chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association, Hill led the campaign to scrap maximum wages for professional players, and the world of sport paid tribute to a hugely influential sporting figure:

Not only was he a legendary figure and highly influential, he was also remembered as a gentleman: