Everton have confirmed the passing of their former club chaplain Brian Crane.
Father Crane was involved with the Blues’ during their halcyon period of the 1980s and retained a strong bond with several players and staff from the time.
They included Howard Kendall, whose funeral the 78-year-old presided over following the sudden passing of Everton’s most successful manager last year.
Kevin Sheedy was another who retained a close link and saw Fr Crane involved in both his wedding and the christening of his children.
He said: “It is really devastating news.
“I have known Father Crane ever since my playing days. I signed when I was 22 so it has been over 30 years.
“I knew him very well, and would often socialise with him. I would see him every few months but would always keep in touch over the phone.
“He was the minister who did my wedding and he christened my children, so he was a real close family friend.
“Father Crane had strong links to the football club. He was very close to Everton and was a big personality around the place.
“He loved a laugh and his football and had a great relationship with the players over the years, especially Howard.
“It is a major loss for Everton and I am gobsmacked and gutted by the news.”