Arsenal and Liverpool great Kennedy dies aged 70

and

great

Ray Kennedy

has passed away at the age of 70.

Kennedy’s death was announced on Tuesday and he was a great player in the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to many trophies during that time.

He met the back of the net 71 times in 212 matches before making a move to Merseyside.

At the Reds, he played as a midfielder, helping his side win five league titles and three European Cups during his spell at Anfield.

Although Liverpool’s greatest manager Billy Shankly’s departure overshadowed his arrival, Kennedy appeared in 393 matches for the Reds and met the target 72 times.

He then made a move to Swansee City, Hartlepool and Cypriot outfit Pezoporikos and he had 17 England caps and three international goals.

In the mid-1980s, Kennedy was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Liverpool said:

"We are mourning legendary former player Ray Kennedy, who has passed away at the age of 70.

"The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Ray's family and friends at this sad and difficult time."

Arsenal said in a tribute: "

For Arsenal fans fortunate enough to have witnessed Ray Kennedy in action, the image will remain of a teenage striking colossus, dominating opposition defences as his goals led the club to one of the game’s greatest achievements and something his name will always be associated with – the double.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with Ray’s family and friends."

The Football Association paid its own salute to Kennedy via the

Twitter

, saying:

"We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Ray Kennedy at the age of 70. Ray won 17 caps for the Three Lions between 1976 and 1980, scoring three times. All of our thoughts go out to his family, friends and former clubs."

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