TRIBUTES have been paid to an ex-Blackburn Rovers star who died at the age of 70.

Dave Wagstaffe, who played 85 matches during two spells between 1976-78 and 1979-80, passed away after a battle with cancer.

The winger arrived at Rovers on loan in 1976 and was quickly taken to Rovers’ fans hearts.

He is classed by some as being England’s greatest uncapped winger of his generation.

Tributes poured in for the ‘tremendous’ man, who was described as a ‘super fellow’ by former colleagues.

Ken Beamish, who was one of the founding members of the Former Players’ Association and who played with Mr Wagstaffe, said: “Dave was a very easy going person and he was a great lad to get on with.

“I always remember he was the last to get changed in the dressing room.

“It would be 10 minutes before kick-off that he would put his kit on.

“It was just his routine he got into through his years.

“He was a super fellow who took his abilities in a normal, straight-forward way.

“He was never boastful about things and he just got on with his job.

“I had the honour of playing with him during my last season at Blackburn and we got to know each other very quickly.”

Mr Beamish said the Former Players’ Association would help Mr Wagstaffe’s family with any support they needed.

Mr Wagstaffe was known for being the first player to receive a red card.

He was also part of the League Cup-winning Wolves team in 1974 before he joined Rovers.

A spokesman for the club said: “Blackburn Rovers are saddened to learn of the death of former player Dave Wagstaffe, aged 70.

“Wagstaffe, who started his professional career with Manchester City, joined Rovers in 1976 from Wolverhampton Wanderers when then manager Jim Smith brought him to Ewood Park.

“Hugely popular with supporters, 'Waggy' had a two-year spell with the club before joining Blackpool on the eve of the 1978 season, however he returned to Rovers in March 1979.

“In total the left winger made 85 appearances for Rovers, scoring seven goals.

“Rovers would like to offer its condolences to Dave's family and friends at this sad time.”