Colchester United are saddened to hear that former centre half Kevin Beattie has passed away.
Predominantly known for the stellar career he had at near neighbours Ipswich Town, where he won the FA and UEFA Cups, Beattie joined the U's in the summer of 1982.
Injury prevented him making more than six appearances, but he was still extremely highly regarded amongst U's fans as one of the county's best footballing centre halfs.
Phil Coleman played alongside Beattie at the U's, and said of his former teammate: "From first-hand experience, all the accolades that The Beat gets are all true."
"He will be sadly missed by everyone who knew him and will be shown total respect from all fans who had the privilege of seeing him play.
"Kevin joined us at the start of the 1982 season and played beside his great friend and U's manager Alan Hunter.
"His impact was immediate, and for me was the best player I have ever seen and had the honour of played beside.
"He had every asset and whether it was in training or in games, he was the quickest, strongest, most fearsome, most brave and dominated all areas.
"One game springs to mind- we played Watford in a pre-season cup tournament, they were fresh from finishing second to Liverpool in the old Division One.
"Watford’s strike force was Luther Blissett, who was regarded as incredibly quick, and 6ft 9in Ross Jenkins. Kevin made them look second rate, outsprinting Blissett and outjumping Jenkins throughout the game.
"He was also a fantastic bloke in and around the changing rooms. He would do anything for anyone and was generous and funny."
The footballing world has lost another legend and everyone at Colchester United sends their condolences to Kevin's family and friends.