TRIBUTES have been paid to a former Rovers footballer who passed away over the weekend.

Mike Harrison, 78, joined Blackburn Rovers in 1962 after coming through the youth ranks at Chelsea.

Described as ‘tall, strong and extremely quick,’ Mr Harrison had a keen eye for the goal and was an expert penalty taker.

A spokesman for the club said: “A member of one of the most exciting forward lines in the club’s history, he went on to make 181 appearances for Rovers, scoring 43 goals.

“After five years’ stellar service at Ewood Park, he left to join Plymouth Argyle in 1967, before spells with Luton Town and Dover.

“He passed away at his care home in Spain over the weekend and Rovers would like to offer its deepest condolences to Mike’s family and friends at this sad time.”

Mr Harrison made over 250 appearances in the Football League for four clubs over a fourteen-year period