Football unites to mourn death of Rio Ferdinand's wife

04.05.2015 13:00

Players past and present have sent their condolences to the six-time Premier League-winning defender as the tragic news about wife Rebecca Ellison emerged this morning.

Leading figures in British sport talked of their "shock and sadness" as messages poured in on social media.

Match of The Day presenter Gary Lineker wrote on Twitter: "Thoughts are with Rio Ferdinand and his family. How dreadfully sad."

While former Manchester United teammate Peter Schmeichel wrote: "Really sad news that Rebecca Ellison, the wife of Rio Ferdinand has past away. My condolences to Rio, their their children and the family. RIP"

Former England cricket captain Michael Vaughan also posted: "Incredibly sad news...Thinking of you @rioferdy5 and your young family."

Famous faces from the world of entertainment and news also wrote to the former Manchester United ace.

Former glamour model Katie Price wrote: "Sorry to hear this sad news @rioferdy5 keep strong and loving hugs to you and your children and both families xxxxx"

TV presenter Eamonn Holmes added: "Such sad news to wake up to ..The Death of @rioferdy5 's wife Rebecca after a short fight with Cancer. Condolences."

And sports presenter Jake Humpherey wrote: "The thoughts of all of us at BT Sport are with Rio Ferdinand and his children Tia, Tate and Lorenz after the heartbreaking death of his wife."

Ferdinand, 36, joined west London side QPR last summer on a free transfer, after his contract at United expired.

His teammates wore black bands today during their match against Liverpool at Anfield to mark their respect.

Before the game, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard exchanged a bouquet of flowers with QPR skipper Joey Barton.

Earlier today, Ferdinand's club released a statement on his behalf where talked about his "soul mate" passed away last night at the Royal Marsden Hospital in London.

It read: "She was a fantastic loving mother to our three beautiful children.

"She will be missed as a wife, sister, aunt, daughter and granddaughter. She will live on in our memory, as a guide and inspiration.

"Myself, my parents Janice and Julian, along with Rebecca's parents Lesley and Stephen, would like to thank our families, friends and my club colleagues who have rallied around in these desperate days, weeks and months.

"I would also like to express my gratitude for the dedication and expertise of the staff led by Professors Johnstone and Clarke at the Royal Marsden. Their valiant efforts to prolong Rebecca's all-too-short life will not be forgotten."

He added: "Our grief, as a family, is total. We would appreciate being allowed to mourn privately."

(dailystar.co.uk)

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