Legendary commentator John Motson, who had a glittering 50-year career most known for his work with the BBC, has died aged 77.
Often known simply as 'Motty', he had worked on Match of the Day since 1971 and commentated on almost 2,500 televised games. He was awarded an OBE for his service to sports broadcasting in 2001.
Motson's voice was heard by millions spanning a number of decades as he covered 10 World Cups, 10 European Championships and 29 FA Cup finals for BBC Sport before retiring in 2018. His final game for Match of the Day was between Crystal Palace and West Bromwich Albion in 2018.
READ MORE: Government's future plans for football that will affect Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham revealed
The tributes have been pouring in to pay respect to one of the legends involved in the game, with Jamie Carragher, Kevin Campbell, David Baddiel and Jim White all posting heartfelt messages on social media. Former Liverpool defender Carragher tweeted: "RIP John Motson *heartbroken emoji*.
"An absolute Legend of the game. So many of us grew up listening to this man describe the action & goals on MOTD & cup finals. Sad loss."
Ex-Arsenal star Campbell posted: "Rest in Peace John “Motty” Motson an absolute legend and gentleman *love heart emoji* *praying emoji* *sad emoji*."
Baddiel tweeted: "John Motson. Oy. Feels impossible: a voice that, at one time, *was* football. RIP."
Broadcaster Jim White posted on Twitter: "Sad news, legendary football commentator John Motson has died. He was 77."
From 1979 to 2008 Motson was the BBC's voice on major finals such as the FA Cup, European Championships and World Cup. That run included his record-breaking sixth World Cup final in Berlin in 2006 and his 29th FA Cup final in 2008.
Football has lost one of the iconic figures involved in the game and Motson will be sadly missed by many. After his final match commentary, he was invited on to the pitch at Selhurst Park after full-time and applauded by the fans before Palace manager Roy Hodgson presented him with a framed copy of the programme from his first and last matches at Selhurst Park and a crystal microphone.
READ NEXT:
Stan Kroenke sets Folarin Balogun transfer fee for Arsenal as Bukayo Saka advice pays off
Why Premier League should trial new system as Arsenal fans left frustrated by 3pm blackout rule
Tuchel, Pochettino, Zidane - What Chelsea manager candidates have said amid Todd Boehly decision
N'Golo Kante, Cesar Azpilicueta: Chelsea injury news and return dates ahead of Tottenham clash
Daniel Levy and Fabio Paratici have five Tottenham deals they must prioritise in 2023/24 plans
