FORMER Chelsea captain Ray Wilkins died in hospital today following a cardiac arrest. He was 61.

Wilkins, who won 84 England caps, had been treated in St George’s Hospital in Tooting, south-west London since Friday.

A statement from Chelsea read: “Everybody associated with Chelsea Football Club is devastated to learn of the passing of our former player, captain and assistant coach, Ray Wilkins. Rest in peace, Ray, you will be dreadfully missed.”

Wilkins had carried out media duties on talkSPORT and Sky Sports — he was a regular pundit on both platforms — shortly before suffering the cardiac arrest.

He became the fourth player sent off while playing for England when he was dismissed during the 1986 World Cup finals in Mexico in a game against Morocco.

Wilkins, known in the game by his childhood nickname “Butch,” played for 11 clubs and was on the coaching staff of several more, but is commonly associated with Chelsea.

The midfielder started his career there and spent six years with the Blues, while also having numerous stints as assistant manager. On one occasion, he led the side on a caretaker basis.

Greg Clarke, chair of the Football Association, said: “I am deeply saddened to hear this news. Ray Wilkins was a warm and kind-hearted man, who always had time for others. Through his broadcast work later in life he shared his love and knowledge of the game with millions of football fans.”