Former Liverpool and Arsenal midfielder Ray Kennedy has passed away at the age of 70.

Kennedy rose through the youth ranks at Highbury and scored 32 goals in 70 games for the Gunners - winning the league and cup double in 1971.

The former England international completed a move to Liverpool in 1974 and enjoyed a trophy-laden eight years on Merseyside, but he suffered from Parkinson's disease following the end of his playing career.

A tribute on the Liverpool website read: "Liverpool FC is mourning legendary former player Ray Kennedy, who has passed away at the age of 70. The latter period of Kennedy's career, and indeed the rest of his life, was affected by Parkinson's disease.

"Liverpool and Arsenal held a testimonial match in his honour at Highbury in 1991, with Paisley writing of Kennedy in his autobiography: "In my view he was one of Liverpool's greatest players and probably the most underrated."

"The thoughts of everybody at Liverpool FC are with Ray's family and friends at this sad and difficult time."

Arsenal posted their own tribute on the club's website, which read: "Everyone at the club is deeply saddened to hear of the death of Ray Kennedy.

"For Arsenal fans fortunate enough to have witnessed Ray Kennedy in action, the image will remain of a teenage striking colossus, dominating opposition defences as his goals led the club to one of the game's greatest achievements and something his name will always be associated with – the Double. Our thoughts and prayers are with Ray's family and friends."

Kennedy amassed 72 goals in 393 games for Liverpool and won six first division titles, three European Cups and the UEFA Cup during his career. body check tags ::