By Amir Mir
Stan Collymore and Ian Taylor have revealed their devastation after learning of the death of former Aston Villa striker Dalian Atkinson on Monday.
Police revealed a man had died in the early hours of Monday morning after they were called to an address in Telford, Shropshire.
Sky News confirmed on Twitter that the man was Atkinson, 48, who played for Villa between 1991 and 1995.
Update – 48-year-old man who died after he was tasered by police in Telford has been named as former Aston Villa footballer Dalian Atkinson
— Sky News Breaking (@SkyNewsBreak) August 15, 2016
The Ex-Villa players were left devastated at the news of his death, with Taylor revealing he had only spoken to Atkinson last week.
Here are Collymore and Taylor paying their respects to Atkinson on their personal Twitter accounts:
RIP Big man. Deeply distressed and upset at the news. Condolences to DA's family and friends. Much love. Devastated. pic.twitter.com/Uv9ib2zseT
— Stan Collymore (@StanCollymore) August 15, 2016
Just heard news re my old team mate Dalian. Deepest condolences to his family. Only spoke to him last week as well. Sad sad news… #AVFC
— Ian Taylor (@IanTaylor7) August 15, 2016
Holte-End hero Atkinson played 106 games for Villa scoring 38 goals in all competitions, including his famous solo effort against Wimbledon in the 1992-93 Premier League season.
He is fondly remembered by Villa fans for his performance and crucial goal he scored in the 1994 League Cup final as the Midlands club beat Manchester United at Wembley.
Atkinson was also a key figure in the side under Ron Atkinson that came runners-up to United in the 1992-93 season, when he formed a lethal strike partnership with Dean Saunders.
In other Aston Villa news, the club’s owner has revealed a new signing will be announced after their game against Huddersfield.
