ENGLAND'S 1966 World Cup-winning left-back Ray Wilson has died at the age of 83.

The former Huddersfield, Everton and Bradford City player was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2004 and died on Tuesday evening.

"Huddersfield Town is devastated to learn of the passing of World Cup winner Ramon 'Ray' Wilson MBE at the age of 83," read a statement from Huddersfield.

"Ray is arguably the most successful and best-known player ever to pull on a Huddersfield Town shirt, having been a key member of England's World Cup-winning team in 1966."

Wilson made his England debut in 1960 and went on to win 63 caps. 30 of those as a Huddersfield player.

He joined Everton in 1964 and reached the pinnacle of his career in the summer of 1966 as part of Sir Alf Ramsey's England team who beat West Germany 4-2 in the World Cup final at Wembley.

He played two games at the end of his career for Bradford City and had a brief spell as caretaker

"Until very recently, he was a regular supporter of the Terriers at home match days alongside his eldest son Russell despite battling Alzheimer's disease, which he was diagnosed with in 2004," Huddersfield's statement said.

"The thoughts of everyone at Huddersfield Town are with Ray's wife Pat, his sons Russ and Neil and the rest of his family and friends at this difficult time."

Everton were "deeply saddened" by the news of Wilson's death, with the club describing him as "unquestionably one of the finest footballers to wear the royal blue jersey".

Wilson's death was announced as England boss Gareth Southgate named his squad for this summer's World Cup.

Those players will bid to emulate the great 1966 side when they travel to Russia next month.

The Football Association said: "We are shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of World Cup winner Ray Wilson. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."