Former Dundee United star Ian Redford has been found dead at the age of 53.
Police say his body was found in woodland near Irvine in Ayrshire on Friday.
Redford starred in United’s UEFA and Scottish cup runs in the 1986/87 season and played in both legs of United’s European final against IFK Gothenburg.
He started his career at Dundee, and also played for Rangers, St Johnstone, Brechin and Raith Rovers.
A native of Perth, last year he released an autobiography entitled Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head in which he recounted his playing days and revealed the problems he faced because of deafness in one ear.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=sMWTxcmJwU0%3Frel%3D0
In a statement, Dundee United said: “Everybody at Dundee United is devastated to hear of the passing of ex-United player Ian Redford.
“The memory of his performances for United at a time when the club competed in the higher echelons of European football will forever be part of our history and his winning goal against Borussia Monchengladbach in the semi-final of the UEFA Cup in 1987 will always be looked back on with particular fondness by Arabs everywhere.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Ian’s family at this very sad time.”
Dundee United fans’ group the ArabTRUST also paid tribute, saying: “Ian served United with distinction for three years and was part of the great side who made it to the UEFA Cup Final in 1987.
“A cultured midfielder, many Arabs will fondly recall his free-kick at the Nou Camp which led to United’s famous late comeback and his semi-final goal against Borussia Mnchengladbach.
“Everyone at ArabTRUST would like to express their deepest condolences to the Redford family.”
Dundee FC also paid tribute to a player who graduated from the Dens Park youth system.
The club said: “Everyone at Dundee FC was saddened to hear of the death of former midfielder/striker Ian Redford – one of the most talented kids to come through the Dens youth system over the last few decades.
“Ian was mainly a striker during his time at Dens – and he scored four goals in one match against St Mirren in 1978 in a 4-1 win, something not done by an individual since.
“It was the kind of performance that brought attention from richer clubs and Ian was sold to Rangers for a Scottish record transfer fee not long afterwards.
“While there he won trophies and his return to the city to play for rivals Dundee United saw him earn runners-up medals in the UEFA and Scottish Cups.
“Ian was a silky and attacking player who was not quite the stereotypical footballer – he’ll be missed. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time.”
Redford’s former Dundee United team-mate Kevin Gallacher was one of many people to post messages online paying tribute.
Fans have also left their messages of condolence for a player loved by the supporters of so many clubs.
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