Former England and Queens Park Rangers forward Stan Bowles has died aged 75.
Bowles, who had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, played more than 560 games in English football and was capped five times by England.
He made 315 appearances for QPR and scored 97 goals for the Loftus Road club.
Bowles also played for Manchester City, Bury, Crewe Alexandra, Carlisle United, Nottingham Forest, Leyton Orient and Brentford.
QPR said it was “with a heavy heart” they had learned that the club “icon” had passed away.
Bowles played for QPR from 1972 to 1979 and became known as one of English football’s celebrated entertainers and most charismatic figures.
“All our thoughts are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time. May he rest in peace,” said a QPR statement.
“The club will be confirming how we will be paying a fitting tribute to Stan in due course.”
Bowles started his career at Manchester City and had spells at Bury, Crewe and Carlisle before moving to QPR.
He was part of their side which finished as runners-up to Liverpool in the old First Division in 1975-76 and had a stand at Loftus Road named after him in 2022 – the Stanley Bowles Stand.
QPR saluted Bowles in their statement, adding: “A darling of the Loftus Road terraces, Stanley Bowles is undoubtedly one of the greatest players to have ever pulled on the famous blue and white hoops.
“Many would argue that he is the best.
“Regardless, Stan was a special talent – a 1970s footballing maverick – who was popular for his antics both on and off the field.”
Bowles had a brief spell at Forest before moving to Leyton Orient and Brentford, where he was named the club’s player of the year in 1982, two years prior to ending his playing career.
“One of the finest ever to play in red and white, we mourn the death of Stan Bowles,” said Brentford in a statement.
“A great entertainer and character who put smiles on the faces of all who saw him play.
“Our thoughts are with Stan’s friends and family at this incredibly sad time.”
Bowles won five England caps, scoring one goal
Bowles had a stand named after him at QPR’s Loftus Road stadium in 2022
