Premier League clubs to honour Cyrille Regis with minute's applause and black armbands

The 59-year-old's death was announced on Monday and his contribution to football both on the pitch and off it is to be recognised in the English top flight

Cyrille Regis spent seven years at West Brom where he made 241 league appearances (Getty)

A minute’s applause will be held before all Premier League games this weekend as a mark of respect to former West Brom and England forward Cyrille Regis.

The 59-year-old’s death was announced on Monday and his contribution to football both on the pitch and off it is to be recognised in the English top flight, with players asked to wear black armbands in his memory.

A statement from the Premier League read: “The Premier League recognises the important career of Cyrille Regis, and his special role as a trailblazer for black players in modern English football.

“Clubs will mark his contribution with a minute of applause and the wearing of black armbands at this weekend’s matches.

“The League embraces requests from clubs and stakeholders to celebrate the lives of people who have made a unique contribution to the sport.”

The English Football League reiterated its "respect" for Regis but confirmed it would not be forcing clubs to organise a tribute.

An EFL spokesman said: “The EFL understands the strength of feeling throughout football for the impact Cyrille Regis made as a player and as a campaigner for black players in the game. The EFL would like to reiterate the respect and gratitude that has been shown by the football family and the wider sporting world for the contribution he has made.

“The EFL has communicated to all 72 Clubs, and while the EFL is placing no obligation on its Clubs to organise a tribute, we are offering our full support for any proposed marks of respect they would like to make ahead of this weekend’s fixtures.

“We will always support the recognition of players who have left a lasting legacy on our game.”

PA