Former Watford assistant manager Craig Shakespeare has died at the age of 60.

During his playing career, ‘Shakey’ was a midfielder for Walsall, West Brom and Grimsby Town among others.

After retiring from playing, he worked as assistant to Nigel Pearson at Leicester City and Hull City, remaining with the Foxes when Claudio Ranieri took over and was part of the coaching team that guided them to the Premier League title in 2016.

After a stint managing Leicester, he became Sam Allardyce’s assistant at Everton before reuniting with Pearson at Vicarage Road in December 19. The pair were sacked in July 2020.

Shakespeare then worked for Aston Villa and Norwich before another spell at Leicester.

It was announced in October 2023 that he had commenced treatment for cancer.

The League Managers’ Association released a statement on behalf of Shakespeare’s family which said: “‍It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Craig Shakespeare, ‘SHAKEY’.

"Craig passed away peacefully this morning at home surrounded by his family.

"Whilst the family are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.

"The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person.

"The family would like to thank and acknowledge the many prayers and good wishes sent during the past few difficult months, many of which we were unable to respond to but all meant a lot to Craig and the family."

Paying tribute LMA Chairman Martin O'Neill OBE said: “Craig’s impact on the people he worked with was often spoken about by players, coaches and managers in the game. Not only because his knowledge of football and coaching was so strong, but also because his personality and warmth made people feel important and that Craig truly cared about their development and success.

“The role he played in the success of his teams should be celebrated, especially at Leicester City, who rightfully see Craig as a club stalwart who played a significant part of that unbelievable Premier League winning season and many other wonderful times throughout his three spells at the club.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Craig’s family and loved ones at this awfully sad time.”

Former Watford boss Pearson said: “It's difficult to put into words how I and indeed everyone who came across or worked with Craig will feel on hearing such devastating news.

“He is without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I've had the privilege of calling my friend. Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend.

“You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle or memorable occasion will come to us. We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey.”