London, Jan 15 (IANS): Former England and West Bromwich Albion striker Cyrille Regis breathed his last at the age of 59, the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) announced on Monday.

"Terribly sad news this morning that footballing pioneer Cyrille Regis has died aged 59," the PFA said via its official Twitter account.

"A true gentleman and legend, he will be deeply missed. Our sympathies to his family and friends."

Regis also played for clubs like Coventry City, Aston Villa and Wolverhampton Wanderers during a 19-year professional playing career.

Regis represented England five times between 1982 and 1987, having been one of the stars of the Baggies team between 1977 and 1984.

He scored 112 goals in 297 appearances for Albion before moving on to Coventry, winning the FA Cup with the Sky Blues in 198.

Former England striker Gary Linekar paid his tribute to Regis: "Saddened to hear that Cyrille Regis has passed away. A tremendous striker and fine man whose legacy goes beyond the game, helping to pave a way for black footballers in this country."

Former England, Newcastle and Blackburn Rovers star striker Alan Shearer wrote on Twitter: "What a man. What a centre-forward! One of my earliest football memories was walking into WBA for a trial as a 13-year-old kid, seeing Cyrille Regis and being in awe of him. RIP big man.