Former Norwich City assistant head coach Craig Shakespeare has died aged 60, his family have confirmed. 

Shakespeare, who worked alongside Dean Smith between 2021 and 2022 at Carrow Road, was undergoing treatment for cancerback in October 2023.

A Premier League winner with Leicester, Shakespeare enjoyed an illustrious career in professional game - including West Brom, Hull, Everton, Watford, Aston Villa and England.

A statement released on behalf of his family via the League Managers' Association said Shakespeare "passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family".

It added: "While the family are immensely proud of his footballing achievements as both a player and a coach, to us, his family, he will always primarily be a loving and loved husband, father, son, brother and uncle.

"The loss is devastating to us all and we would ask that privacy be given at this incredibly difficult time as we try to come to terms with, and mourn, the loss of a very special person.

"The family would like to thank and acknowledge the many prayers and good wishes sent during the past few difficult months, many of which we were unable to respond to but all meant a lot to Craig and the family."

Shakespeare was a popular and much loved figure during his spell at Carrow Road, making friendships with staff and enjoying close relationships with players. 

City players will wear black armbands for Saturday's friendly match against FC St Pauli and prior to kick-off fans will be asked to take part in a minute's applause.

Former City boss Martin O'Neill OBE said: “Craig’s impact on the people he worked with was often spoken about by players, coaches and managers in the game. Not only because his knowledge of football and coaching was so strong, but also because his personality and warmth made people feel important and that Craig truly cared about their development and success.

“The role he played in the success of his teams should be celebrated, especially at Leicester City, who rightfully see Craig as a club stalwart who played a significant part of that unbelievable Premier League winning season and many other wonderful times throughout his three spells at the club.

“My thoughts and prayers are with Craig’s family and loved ones at this awfully sad time.”

Nigel Pearson said: “It's difficult to put into words how I and indeed everyone who came across or worked with Craig will feel on hearing such devastating news.

“He is without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I've had the privilege of calling my friend. Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend. You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle or memorable occasion will come to us. We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey.”