Blackburn Rovers FC would like to record its deepest condolences following the untimely death of Denise Hendry, wife of Colin - of one of the club's most popular players in modern times.

Denise, 42, had spent the past few weeks in intensive care at Salford Royal Hospital fighting to overcome a brain infection following an operation.

Rovers' managing director Tom Finn said: "Everyone connected with the club is deeply saddened by the news of Denise's passing.

"It is tragic that someone so young should be taken from us in this way and it goes without saying that our thoughts are very much with Colin and his family at this deeply distressing time."