Famed football journalist and Sky Sports star dies as tributes paid

Sportswriter and Sky Sports star Patrick Barclay has died at the age of 77, the Football Writers’ Association announced.

The FWA posted a message on behalf of Barclay’s family on X, announcing his death. The statement read: "It is with the greatest sadness that we must announce the death of our dear Patrick Barclay.

“A celebration of Patrick’s life will be held at a later date. Meanwhile, we hope that the family’s wish for privacy is respected."

Tributes began to flock in for Barclay, with the Sports Journalists’ Association posting: “The SJA wishes to express its deepest condolences following the news that we have lost Patrick Barclay. We share in the sadness of his family, our friends at the FWA, and all who knew Paddy. An SJA Sports Writer of the Year Award winner, he will be greatly missed by us all.”

Former footballers who brushed shoulders with Barclay also sent their messages of condolences on X, ex-England striker and BBC pundit Alan Shearer wrote: “Ah no. Such sad news. RIP Paddy”.

Fellow former England striker Robbie Fowler said: “A great man...RIP Patrick”. Manchester United, with whom Barclay had a great understanding, also paid their respects, posting: “Paddy will always be held in great esteem by everyone at Manchester United and we send our sympathies to his loved ones at this time.”

Tributes also came from his peers, with football writer Alan Biggs saying: “So sorry to see this. A gentleman in every sense of the word - besides being a superb journalist everyone in the profession looked up to.”

The Athletic’s Oliver Kay wrote: “Such sad news. A wonderful football writer and always such engaging company. RIP Paddy”. While Mike Walters at the Mirror added: “One of the Fleet Street greats. Glorious writer, glorious company. Heartfelt condolences to his family and legions of friends. RIP Paddy”.