Arsenal chairman Sir Chips Keswick has hailed former manager Don Howe as "one of the most influential footballing figures in the history of the club".

Howe passed away aged 80 this afternoon following a long battle with illness having enjoyed an illustrious career as a player, coach and manager at the highest level for both club and country.

Howe had two spells as Arsenal coach, during which time the club reached four FA Cup finals, before taking the reins himself between 1983 and 1986.

"We were aware Don had been enduring a long battle with illness but it was still a shock to learn the news about someone who was loved by so many people at the club, and who had such a remarkable influence as a player, coach and manager here," Keswick said in a statement.

"Don possessed a marvellous ability to get the very best out of players with his coaching techniques and provide them with the perfect preparation for matches. He was the very best at what he did - and he did it with us, at Arsenal, for decade after decade.

"He will be greatly missed by everyone who knew him and his name will live on in the history books as one of the most influential footballing figures in the history of the club."

Howe also assisted three separate England managers and helped the Three Lions to reach the semi-finals at both the 1990 World Cup and Euro '96 on home soil.