Cliftonville have paid tribute to their former player Keith Alexander who has died aged 53.
Alexander, who played for Cliftonville in 1994, had been in charge of English League Two club Macclesfield Town.
He had suffered a brain aneurysm in November 2003 and passed away after arriving home from Macclesfield's 1-0 League Two defeat at Notts County on Tuesday night.
"Keith Alexander had a long and distinguished career and represented a number of Clubs as both player and Manager but his name will always be synonymous with Cliftonville Football Club for anyone lucky enough to have seen him play for us," said Cliftonville Chairman Gerard Lawlor.
"He was actually Assistant Manager of Mansfield Town when he was signed by Marty Quinn and little was expected of him during his short loan spell, but what an impact he made - not only did he score on his debut, but his ability, experience and guidance helped transform our season.
"It was an important campaign because the first ever Irish Premier League was on the horizon and it was vital we picked up enough points to make the cut.
"There's no question Keith made a massive difference to our chances."
'Memories'
Lawlor had said arrangements had even been put in place for Alexander to attend an up-coming club event.
"I can confidently speak for everyone associated with Cliftonville when I thank Keith Alexander for the memories; the great goals, the great nights and for always being a friend to our club.
"In fact, as recently as this week, we had made arrangements with him to attend an official club function later in the year.
"Our condolences go to his family at this very distressing time."
The Nottingham-born manager recently celebrated his two-year anniversary in charge of the Silkmen and his death has left the Cheshire club deeply shocked.
Macclesfield chairman Mike Rance paid an emotional tribute to his manager.
"We're all absolutely devastated.
"I spoke to Keith last night at about 11.15pm after our game at Notts County and he was in good spirits because, although we lost, we had given a team chasing promotion a good game.
"We were chatting about an FA hearing after he had a row with a referee at Bournemouth, which just shows how passionate he was about the game.
"It was perhaps fitting that the last conversation we had was about football."
The exact cause of Alexander's death remains unclear, but Rance said: "He went home after the game last night and collapsed. Tragically, he never recovered."
Alexander had built a reputation in the lower leagues for working effectively within a tight budget and had previous managerial spells with Lincoln and Peterborough as well as a director of football role at Bury.
Along with MK Dons boss Paul Ince, Alexander was one of only two black managers working in English management throughout the 92 clubs.
Rance added: "Keith was the perfect manager for a club like ours.
"He was totally pragmatic about managing in League Two and the constraints involved.
"He was a splendid man, a real gentleman and an absolute privilege to work with.
"He was strong, sensible, commanded respect throughout the game and was unique in many ways."
Macclesfield are scheduled to play Hereford at Edgar Street on Saturday but the match could be postponed.
Rance has already spoken to Hereford chairman Graham Turner and explained: "Graham also knew Keith very well and the decision as to whether Saturday's game goes ahead will be taken by Keith's family shortly.
"I know what Keith would have wanted, but it will be his family's decision."
© UTV News