Former Inter Milan president Massimo Moratti has paid tribute to Gigi Simoni after his passing.

Simoni died earlier today at the age of 81 and is best known for coaching Inter during the 1997-98 campaign, helping Ronaldo score 34 goals and winning the UEFA Cup.

"He was a great leader in Inter's history," Moratti told ANSA.

“He won us a very important European trophy and was prevented from winning a title he absolutely deserved.

“He was a gentlemanly coach, for whom I had great esteem and affection.

“The phone call from his wife warning me of his death a little while ago caused me immense pain."