England vs Italy: Davide Astori, Cyrille Regis and Jimmy Armfield remembered with minute’s applause at Wembley
Trio all passed away in 2018 and were remembered by those in attendance for Tuesday night's international friendly clash
A MINUTE’S applause was held for late trio Davide Astori, Cyrille Regis and Jimmy Armfield ahead of England’s friendly with Italy at Wembley on Tuesday night.
The 90,000-strong crowd was on its feet as those inside the home of English football paid tribute to the three deceased players moments before kick-off.
Many looked emotional as the applause rang around the stadium in a fitting tribute to the trio’s memory.
Former Italy international Astori could have been lining up against England, but he was found dead by Fiorentina team-mates in their hotel room prior to a Serie A match on March 4 at the age of 31.
Pals including Gianluigi Buffon and Marco Verratti were among those who joined in the applause as Italy supporters held up signs in tribute to the late centre-back.
Meanwhile, Regis’ family were in attendance as the ex-West Brom and Coventry man was also remembered.
He passed away aged 59 on January 14 and was awarded an MBE for his work both on and off the pitch.
Regis also turned out for Aston Villa, Wolves, Wycombe and Chester, and picked up five England caps.
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World Cup winner Armfield was honoured too after passing away on January 22 at the age of 82.
He spent his entire career at Blackpool, making an incredible 627 appearances, and also went on to manage Bolton and Leeds.