Tributes have been paid to World Cup winner Alan Ball, who has sadly died at the age of 61.

The youngest player of Sir Alf Ramsey's side that won the World Cup in 1966, Ball was just 21-years-old on that famous day in July and would go on to earn 72 caps for his country.

The FA's Chief Executive Brian Barwick led the tributes, saying: "Any English football fan can recite the 1966 World Cup winning team by heart, and Alan Ball played a huge role in that success.

"But while he will inevitably be remembered for his part in English football's greatest moment, his contribution to the game goes far beyond that day. His passion for the game, and his warmth and humour as a man, will be sorely missed."

Ball is best remembered for his tremendous enthusiasm and seemingly never-ending energy, typified in his courageous efforts during the 120 minutes of England's Final victory over West Germany at Wembley.

A talented and hard working midfielder, Ball started his career at Blackpool before joining Everton where he played in The FA Cup Final in 1968 before winning the League Championship two years later. Ball also played for Arsenal and Southampton before a spell in America.

Ball then moved into management and took charge of seven clubs over a 19-year period, including two spells with Portsmouth as well as Southampton and Manchester City. In 2000 Ball was awarded an MBE for his services to football.

FA Chairman Geoff Thompson said: "This is extremely sad news and our thoughts are with his family and friends. A World Cup winner, a great player for club and country and a true football man, Alan deserves his place among the greats of the English game."

England Head Coach Steve McClaren said: "Alan was a fantastic player, full of energy, commitment and skill, who had a marvellous career. It's incredible to think that he was only 21 when he won the World Cup. He will also be warmly remembered as one of English football's great characters, who left a lasting imprint on the game he loved."

The FA's Director of Football Development, Sir Trevor Brooking added: "I played with Alan on my England debut in 1974 and knew him personally. He is someone I always had a very high regard for, both as a player and as a man, and will miss him greatly.

"He was rightly recognised for his never-say-die attitude and energy, but he was also a very talented footballer and a key member of every team he played for."