Tributes were paid today to Everton and England defender Brian Labone. The 66-year-old, who won 26 England caps, died last night.

Labone made 451 league appearances for Everton in a 13-year career. Ian Ross, spokesman for Everton, said: "Everyone at the club is devastated. In the pantheon of Everton greats, Brian Labone is right up there with the very best.

"He was one of the club's favourite sons and a hugely respected figure. He was regarded as a 'professional's professional' before that term was ever used.

"But not only was he a great footballer, he was also a lovely bloke. I've never met anyone who met Brian who didn't like him. He still worked at the club as an ambassador on match days, showing guests around the stadium.

"He loved to do that because it meant he was still dealing with Evertonians. He was passionate about the football club and a great Merseysider."

Labone was due to appear in England's 1966 World Club squad but pulled out as he was getting married. He later played a key role in the England World Cup squad of 1970.

Labone, who was booked only twice and scored two goals in his career, retired at the end of the 1970-71 season due to an Achilles injury. He won two league championships and an FA Cup winner's medal.