Tributes have come pouring in for Brazilian football legend Pele after his death was announced on Thursday night following a series of health problems in recent years.
Pele, who died aged 82, won three World Cups with Brazil - the first coming as a 17-year-old. He also scored over 1000 goals in his club career and played for Santos for 14 years.
The former striker is the joint-leading scorer for Brazil, alongside Neymar, with 77 goals in just 92 games. Pele is regarded as one of the best ever alongside Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona.
READ MORE: Pele 'The King' of football twice wowed Merseyside crowds half a century apart
READ MORE: Everton and Liverpool pay tribute to Pele after Brazil legend dies aged 82
Ex-Everton striker Gary Lineker led the tributes by labelling Pele as one of the most "divine footballers and joyous men."
"Pele has died. The most divine of footballers and joyous of men. He played a game only a few chosen ones have come close to. 3 times he lifted the most coveted gold trophy in that beautiful yellow shirt. He may have left us but he’ll always have footballing immortality. RIP Pele."
England World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst named Pele as the "greatest of all time" in his tribute to the footballing icon: "I have so many memories of Pele, without doubt the best footballer I ever played against (with Bobby Moore being the best footballer I ever played alongside).
"For me Pele remains the greatest of all time and I was proud to be on the the pitch with him. RIP Pele and thank you."
France World Cup winner Kylian Mbappe posted a picture of himself alongside Pele and called him the "King of football."
"The king of football has left us but his legacy will never be forgotten. RIP KING."
Former Liverpool midfielder Jamie Redknapp touched on how his Dad, Harry Redknapp, would tell him stories of Pele when he was a child.
"Growing up as kid Pele was the king. I used to listen to my dad tell stories about him, like the time he blocked a shot by the great man and his leg was stinging for days. He scored 2 goals in a World Cup final as a 17 year old, can you imagine someone doing that today!
"Watching videos of him in the World Cup in 1970 in that incredible Brazil team made me want to become a footballer. His over head kick in escape to victory never gets old . In an era when we talk about who is the best ever, this man was doing things they do now already in the 60s and 70s. Rest in peace Pele."
Liverpool's Brazilian Fabinho's wife, Rebecca Tavares, took to Twitter to post her own tribute to the great man following his sad passing.
"The original GOAT. A trailblazer. One of the finest players to ever lace up. Rest in peace “Rei”."
The Premier League took to their Twitter account to post their own tribute for Pele: "We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Pele, an extraordinarily gifted footballer who transcended our sport and inspired millions throughout his remarkable career. Our thoughts and sincere condolences go to Pele’s family and friends."
