The Football Association has led the tributes to former England player and Tottenham Under-23 coach Ugo Ehiogu, who has died aged 44.

Ehiogu collapsed at Tottenham's training centre on Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest.

The tribute on the official @England Twitter account read: "We're devastated to hear the news that Ugo Ehiogu has passed away. Our thoughts and sympathies are with all lucky enough to know him."

Ehiogu's former club Aston Villa, for whom he played more than 300 games, tweeted: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the death of our former defender Ugo Ehiogu.

"Our thoughts are with his family at this terribly sad time."

The club added: "We will be holding a minute's applause before our derby with @BCFC...

"Both sets of players will wear black armbands as a mark of respect."

His former Villa team-mate Lee Hendrie told Sky Sports News: "To find out he has passed away, it must be devastating for his family.

"Ugo was such a character. He has always been that bubbly character.

"He was just a great guy to have around."

Ehiogu's former club Middlesbrough tweeted: "MFC are deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing of our former player Ugo Ehiogu. Our thoughts go out to Ugo's friends and family."

Former Tottenham and England defender Sol Campbell tweeted: "One of my East London mates of old. Ugo Ehiogu true defender my heart goes out to his family. I just can't believe it!"

Ehiogu's death was announced in a statement on Spurs' website.

It read: It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Ugo Ehiogu, our Under-23 coach.

Ugo received immediate treatment after suffering a cardiac arrest at the training centre yesterday before being transferred to hospital, where he passed away in the early hours of this morning.

Head of coaching and player development John McDermott said: “Words cannot express the shock and sadness that we all feel at the Club. Ugo’s immense presence will be irreplaceable. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his wife Gemma and his family.”

The Club sends its deepest condolences to Ugo’s family.

Gemma has specifically asked that the family are given privacy at this difficult time.

We should also like to place on record our thanks to all the medical professionals including those at North Middlesex University Hospital, Royal Brompton Hospital and Harefield Hospital for their care and support.