Gary Lineker and the global footballing community have paid tribute to the late, great Pele after the Brazilian superstar died on Thursday, aged 82.
Pele, who is considered by many as the greatest footballer in history, passed away following a battle with cancer. The three-time World Cup winner was re-admitted to hospital in November and later moved to palliative care before his passing was announced.
Several legends of the beautiful game - including Lineker, Michael Owen and Kylian Mbappe - have offered their condolences to Pele's family since the sad news broke on Thursday. England legend Lineker has described Pele as "synonymous with football".
Lineker told BBC Sport: "Well, Pele's hugely significant in not only the development of football, but also in football itself and the enjoyment of football - which is the most important thing.
"It's an entertainment business, and he was one of the great entertainers - through his pure skill, talent and ability. He was also a proven goalscorer. In that sense, he was slightly different perhaps to someone like [Diego] Maradona and even [Lionel] Messi - who are more creative possibly.
"But Pele was an out-and-out goalscorer, and he's played a huge part in football. The name Pele is just synonymous with football."
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Lineker also tweeted his condolences. "Pele has died," he wrote. "The most divine of footballers and joyous of men. He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to. Three times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt.
"He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele."
France international Mbappe, meanwhile, tweeted: "The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP KING."
Geoff Hurst, who faced Pele during their playing days, tweeted: "I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside). For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you."
England hero Owen has described Pele's passing as a "sad day for football around the world". He added: "Brazilian legend and three times World Cup winner Pele has passed away at the age of 82. Rest in peace Edson Arantes do Nascimento [Pele's full name]."
Mirror Football columnist Stan Collymore tweeted some pictures of him and Pele in tribute. He wrote: "Privileged and honoured to interview Pele on his last visit to the UK. Defined the world's greatest sport, a gentleman, a kind man.
"Without Pele, there is no beautiful game. He made it so. Rest in Peace Greatest, every player and fan owes you the greatest debt of gratitude."
Ex-England goalkeeper Peter Shilton has described Pele as "the greatest footballer ever". He tweeted: "I'm so sad to hear of the loss of Pele... a true gentleman on and off the pitch. RIP - the greatest football legend of all time."
Pele's legacy transcended football, with those not involved in the game also paying tribute. Olympic icon Usain Bolt tweeted: "A sporting legend. Rest in Peace, King Pele."
