Former Ipswich and England striker Whymark dies aged 74

Former Ipswich Town striker Trevor Whymark has died at the age of 74 following a battle with Alzheimer's disease.

Whymark, who scored 104 goals in 335 appearances for Town, played under Sir Bobby Robson during one of the club's most successful eras in the 1970s.

The former England international also turned out for Grimsby Town, Southend United, Colchester United and Peterborough United.

An Ipswich Town spokesperson said: "We are saddened to report the passing of Town legend Trevor Whymark.

Whymark was scouted while playing for Norfolk against Suffolk in a county youth fixture and made his debut for the Blues aged 19.

He played 53 games, missing just one, in the 1972-73 season.

Arguably his career highlight was netting four goals in a victory over Lazio in the UEFA Cup, having already beaten Real Madrid that season.

He earned a solitary cap for England under Ron Greenwood in 1977, as a second half substitute against Luxembourg in a World Cup qualifier.

Last year it was revealed that Whymark was living with Alzheimer's, having been diagnosed in late 2019.

His family noticed "subtle changes" in his memory and mood, which they originally put down as a form of grief after his mother died.

Speaking previously, Whymark's son, Craig, said: "It's really touching that people still remember dad and with such fondness."

Since his death football fans have flooded social media with tributes to the former star, with one describing him as a "brilliant, underrated striker and lovely, unassuming man".

One described him as an "unsung" hero of the Robson era.

A Grimsby Town fan said it was a "privilege" to see him wear the "black and white stripes".

The Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) said: "Everyone at the PFA is deeply saddened by the passing of Trevor Whymark.

"Our thoughts and sincere condolences are with Trevor’s family, friends and loved ones."