Former England manager Graham Taylor dies of suspected heart attack
Taylor's family say they are "devastated" after his death, saying it was "sudden and totally unexpected".
Thursday 12 January 2017 21:39, UK
Former England manager Graham Taylor, who also led clubs including Watford and Aston Villa, has died at the age of 72.
His family said in a statement: "With the greatest sadness, we have to announce that Graham passed away at his home early this morning of a suspected heart attack.
"The family are devastated by this sudden and totally unexpected loss."
Taylor, who grew up in Scunthorpe, Lincolnshire, took charge of England between 1990 and 1993.
Former England captain Alan Shearer said on Twitter: "Completely shocked by news of Graham Taylor.
"Always held him in the very highest regard - the man who gave me my first England cap. So sad."
Stoke City striker Peter Crouch tweeted: "Sad news about Graham Taylor. Had so much respect for him.
"Gave me my Premier League debut and I will always be thankful."
Watford Football Club said: "Everyone at Watford FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our most successful manager. We love you, Graham Taylor."
And Sir Elton John, who chaired Watford while Taylor was manager, said: "I am deeply saddened and shocked to hear about Graham's passing.
"He was like a brother to me.
"We shared an unbreakable bond since we first met. We went on an incredible journey together and it will stay with me forever."
Sir Elton added: "He took my beloved Watford from the depths of the lower leagues to uncharted territory and into Europe.
"We have become a leading English club because of his managerial wisdom and genius.
"I love you Graham. I will miss you very much."
Taylor began his career in 1962 as a player with Grimsby Town, later spending four years playing for Lincoln City.
Lincoln was also his first club as a manager, which he led for five years before moving to Watford.
He spent a decade at the Hertfordshire club, taking it from the Fourth Division to the First Division in only five years.
He also led both Watford and Aston Villa to second place finishes in the First Division.
While his time in charge of the national side was difficult, the team did qualify for the Euro '92 finals in Sweden.
However, his charges failed to progress beyond the group stage.
In addition, Taylor substituted striker Gary Lineker in the final group match when a goal was required.
Nevertheless, he kept his position, but resigned in November 1993 after England failed to qualify for the 1994 World Cup finals in the United States.