Former England goalkeeper Alan Hodgkinson has died at the age of 79 after battling an illness.

Hodgkinson spent 17 years playing for Sheffield United, making 674 appearances, before moving into coaching at various clubs, including Rangers, Everton, Manchester City and Manchester United.

The former goalkeeper is also credited with helping Manchester United land Peter Schmeichel from Brondby in 1991.

After hearing of Hodgkinson's death, Schmeichel tweeted: "My condolences to his family and friends. May he Rest In Peace."

Sheffield United co-owner Kevin McCabe told the club's official website: "We are all feeling his loss and our heartfelt condolences go to his wife Brenda and his family. Hodgy made a real impression on the game, not only here in Sheffield with the Blades but elsewhere where he was a great coach and helped the development of many goalkeeping names such as David Seaman and Peter Schmeichel.

"I was one of the fortunate ones to see Alan play - he was an outstanding goalkeeper. Growing up watching the Blades, Alan, along with centre half Joe Shaw, was one of my first heroes back in the late 50s and 60s.

"He was a special man who I was fortunate enough to spend many hours with when he returned to watch the Blades. He will always be remembered by United as a true legend of the Lane."

Hodgkinson also coached for the Scotland national team.