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Sport

12th Jan 2017

People are sharing Mark Pougatch’s ‘perfect’ tribute to BBC Radio colleague Graham Taylor

Have a listen

Rob Burnett

The world of football was in mourning on Thursday when it was announced that Graham Taylor had died.

The former England manager was 72 when he passed away after a suspected heart attack.

After huge success as a club manager with Lincoln, Watford, Aston Villa and Wolves, Taylor began working in the media, most notably on BBC Radio 5Live with Mark Pougatch.

The pair covered England matches together for more than 10 years, and tonight, Pougatch took to the airwaves to pay tribute to his friend.

His words clearly touched many listeners, who were saddened by the news.

Earlier, a family statement had confirmed the news. “With the greatest sadness, we have to announce that Graham passed away at his home early this morning of a suspected heart attack.

“The family are devastated by this sudden and totally unexpected loss.”

Elton John, with whom he shared so much success at Watford, wrote: “I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear about Graham’s passing. He was like a brother to me.

“We shared an unbreakable bond since we first met. We went on an incredible journey together and it will stay with me forever.

“He took my beloved Watford from the depths of the lower leagues to uncharted territory and into Europe. We have become a leading English club because of his managerial wisdom and genius.”

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Graham Taylor