Tributes paid to Cliftonville stalwart Freddie Jardine who has died aged 94

In a message published on the club's official website, the North Belfast outfit said they 'are deeply saddened' by the passing of Mr Jardine.

The Reds described the loyal club servant as a 'hugely respected figure throughout Irish League football'.

"Freddie served his beloved Reds in a multitude of roles throughout an association that spanned an incredible 73 years and all at Solitude – where the Physiotherapy Suite is named in his honour – will miss his presence dearly," the tribute reads.

Chairman Gerard Lawlor added: “Freddie was synonymous with Cliftonville FC and his loss has left us devastated.

“The fact is, nobody at this football club can remember a time before Freddie – he was always here, always working, always dedicated and always open and available for a quick chat, a joke or a discussion about the latest match.

“He loved Cliftonville and Cliftonville loved him. The two have been one and the same for almost three quarters of a century and I know that, in addition to myself, the Board, our players and supporters, there will be countless people from generation after generation who will be deeply saddened to hear that Freddie is no longer with us.”

The web post adds: "Cliftonville Football Club extends deepest sympathies and condolences to Freddie’s friends and the entire Jardine family circle at this very difficult time. We are grateful to have known him, humbled to have worked with him and proud to say that his synonymity with the Reds will ensure that he will never be forgotten at Solitude."