25/04 - 20:00
Glowing tributes have poured in from across the football world for Ray Kennedy – the former Arsenal and Liverpool player - after his death at the age of 70.
After incredibly being rejected as a youngster by Port Vale, Kennedy went on to win three European Cups and five league titles with Liverpool, whom he joined from Arsenal in 1974 after a league and FA Cup double with the Gunners three years previous.
Born in Seaton Delaval in Northumberland, Kennedy was originally a forward at Arsenal and scored 71 goals in 212 games at Highbury, before his move to Merseyside for a club-record fee of £200,000.
During a fabulous eight-year spell at Anfield, he was converted to a left midfielder and scored 72 goals in 393 appearances - becoming a fan favourite in the process.
In a club statement, Liverpool paid tribute to Kennedy stating “the thoughts of everybody at Liverpool FC are with Ray’s family and friends at this sad and difficult time” while Arsenal posted a tweet that read: “Everyone at Arsenal is greatly saddened to hear of the passing of Ray Kennedy. One of the giants of 71, Ray will be sorely missed by his friends, family and everybody at the club. Rest in peace, Ray.”
We are mourning legendary former player Ray Kennedy, who has passed away at the age of 70.
— Liverpool FC (@LFC) November 30, 2021
The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool Football Club are with Ray’s family and friends at this sad and difficult time.
Rest in peace Ray, 1951-2021
