Legendary Liverpool goalkeeper Ray Clemence has passed away at the age of 72, his family announced on Sunday.

Clemence was diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer in 2005.

A three-time European Cup winner, Clemence was regarded by many as Liverpool’s finest goalkeeper. His greatness emphasised by his honours and longevity.

The young Clemence was spotted by Liverpool manager Shankly playing for Scunthorpe United, and signed for the Reds in 1967- in a £18,000 deal. He went on to make 665 appearances- making him the fourth-highest all-time appearance holder for Liverpool.

He was a key component of great Liverpool sides under Bill Shankly and Bob Paisley in the 1970’s and early 80’s, that swept all before them both at home and abroad.

In 1978/79, Clemence and Liverpool conceded just 16 goals, a club record that is unlikely to be broken- and that was in a 42 game season. Quite a remarkable record!

During his 14-year career at Liverpool, he won three European Cups, five league titles, two UEFA Super Cups, an FA Cup, and a League Cup! Not a bad collection of accolades to have!

Since his passing, I wanted to re-watch various clips of him during his time with the club. Watching it back, he has to be one of Liverpool’s greatest goalkeepers, or maybe just the greatest!

The respect he had from his teammates and fans; was second to none. Every game, he just seemed to get into the right position, at the right time and made it look so effortless. He wasn’t flashy with his game; he didn’t need to be! He was a class act..

Tributes have been paid from across the football community since his passing. Jurgen Klopp hailed Clemence as an “extraordinary player and wonderful person.” He further added, “This is an extremely sad moment for everyone associated with Liverpool FC, and we, as the current team and management send all our love to the family.”

Liverpool great, Sir Kenny Dalglish stated ” We have lost a true legend. Clem was a fantastic teammate and great to be around. I will never forget how he helped me to settle in at Anfield. Our thoughts are with the Clemence Family. RIP Clem.”

Reds legend Phil Thompson played his tribute, by stating ” So sorry to hear of the passing of Ray Clemence, my eyes and ears as a teammate, and oh what a keeper, love to Vee and all the family.”

Such heartfelt tributes being paid by both Kenny Dalglish and Phil Thompson for the legend that was Ray Clemence.

But for me, I found Jamie Carragher’s tribute particularly poignant. It was so simple but the words summed up the goalkeeper so perfectly..

It read, ” RIP Ray Clemence, An LFC Giant who was also a giant of a man.” I couldn’t agree more with Jamie’s sentiments!

And that’s how he will always be remembered as, a giant off and on the pitch.. A true gentleman!

YNWA Ray Clemence…

Put simply, a Liverpool Legend!

My thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.

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