Ugo Ehiogu dead aged just 44 from heart attack as tributes pour in from sporting world

TRIBUTES have poured in after former England and Aston Villa ace Ugo Ehiogu passed away aged just 44.

Ehiogu suffered a cardiac arrest at Tottenham's training centre on Thursday and was pronounced dead this morning.

And the sporting world was quick to pay tribute to Ehiogu.

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The defender made over 200 appearances for Villa between 1991 and 2000 before a club record £8million-move to Middlesbrough.

He won the League Cup on two separate occasions with Villa in 1996 and Boro in 2004.

Ehiogu also played for West Brom, Leeds, Rangers and Sheffield United before retiring in 2009.

He joined Spurs in 2014 as the Under-21s coach before becoming their Under-23 chief.

Ehiogu collapsed at Hotspur Way today and received immediate medical attention.

He was then transferred to hospital by ambulance after receiving instant treatment from Spurs’ medical staff.

Ehiogu became a fan favourite after his switch to Scottish side Rangers after scoring a sublime overhead kick in the Old Firm Derby.

Born in Homerton, Ehiogu earned his first England cap in 1996 and went onto represent his country four times.

He bagged his only goal for the Three Lions in a 3-0 victory over Spain in 2001.

Head of Coaching and Player Development John McDermott said: “Words cannot express the shock and sadness that we all feel at the Club. Ugo’s immense presence will be irreplaceable.

"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Gemma and his family.”

And a club statement said: "The Club sends its deepest condolences to Ugo’s family.

"Gemma has specifically asked that the family are given privacy at this difficult time.

"We should also like to place on record our thanks to all the medical professionals including those at North Middlesex

"University Hospital, Royal Brompton Hospital and Harefield Hospital for their care and support."