Former England striker Paul Mariner, who won the FA Cup and Uefa Cup with Ipswich Town, has died, aged 68.

Mariner began his league career at Plymouth Argyle, who signed him from non-league Chorley in 1973, and also played for Arsenal and Portsmouth.

He also had spells as manager of Plymouth and Major League Soccer side Toronto FC.

Lancashire-born Mariner made 35 appearances for England between 1977 and 1985, scoring 13 goals.

Mariner's family have released a statement, confirming his recent battle with illness.

It read: "We regretfully inform you that Paul passed away peacefully on the 9th of July surrounded by his family, after a brief battle with brain cancer.

"We would like to thank all the people who came to see him through his illness for their support and for the message that were sent to him, they meant a great deal to him and us.

"A special thank you must go to the NHS and the unbelievable care he received when he most needed it and for that we, as a family, will forever be in your debt.

"Paul lived a full life and was fortunate enough to represent a group of fantastic football clubs as well as his country, all of which meant the world to him.

"Anyone who knew Paul will attest to his fantastic sense of humour, his passion for life and for his work.

"He will be sorely missed by everyone who was ever around him and by those most close to him."