The football world has been shocked this morning by the tragic death of former striker Dalian Atkinson.
The 48-year-old, who made 85 appearances in four seasons with Aston Villa, was Tasered by UK police in the early hours of the morning.
There are few details known yet about the incident with police saying that officers were called amid concerns “for the safety of an individual”.
Fans have expressed their shock and sorrow on social media.
I can't believe that story about Dalian Atkinson. When I made that decision to follow Villa he was my man #AVFC pic.twitter.com/uamwVlywuI
— jonjon (@jonby2) August 15, 2016
Rest in Peace former Aston Villa striker Dalian Atkinson #avfc
— VillaNews (@VillaNews18) August 15, 2016
Dalian Atkinson was a League Cup winner with Aston Villa in 1994. RIP. pic.twitter.com/A2OZxge2Xm
— Eurosport UK (@Eurosport_UK) August 15, 2016
Just heard the sad news regarding Dalian Atkinson. Thoughts with his family and friends.#RIP
— Ozzie Owl (@O22IE_OWL) August 15, 2016
Former team-mates and friends have also paid tribute to the striker.
Tragic news about my old teammate Dalian Atkinson passing away, thoughts & prayers to all 🙏🏻 #ripdalian
— Paul Dickov (@OfficialPDickov) August 15, 2016
I'm absolutely gutted to hear the news of dalian dying,can't take it in really,my thoughts are with his family!so sad RIP My friend!
— John Aldridge (@Realaldo474) August 15, 2016
Atkinson was particularly remembered for a goal scored against Wimbledon in October 1992, which won the BBC Match of the Day Goal of the Season competition.
Dalian Atkinson vs Wimbledon. (1992) pic.twitter.com/NuGF2G8xDC
— PLClassics (@PLClassics) August 15, 2016
RIP Dalian, I was there that day when you scored that wonder goal. Always a Villa Legend #dalianatkinson #AVFC pic.twitter.com/VRhYOJNi1z
— Wayne Fielding (@Truvillan) August 15, 2016
Dalian Atkinson - Unbelievable player in his prime, Scorer of the greatest goal Ive ever seen for Villa against Wimbledon at Selhurst Park.
— KøbeDesigns (@KobeDesigns) August 15, 2016
