Former England captain Rio Ferdinand's wife Rebecca has died after a short battle with cancer.

The former Manchester United defender announced the tragic news this morning.

'She will be missed as a wife, sister, aunt, daughter and granddaughter. She will live on in our memory, as a guide and inspiration.

'Myself, my parents Janice and Julian, along with Rebecca's parents Lesley and Stephen, would like to thank our families, friends and my club colleagues who have rallied around in these desperate days, weeks and months.

'I would also like to express my gratitude for the dedication and expertise of the staff led by Professors Johnstone and Clarke at the Royal Marsden. Their valiant efforts to prolong Rebecca's all-too-short life will not be forgotten.

'Our grief, as a family, is total. We would appreciate being allowed to mourn privately.'

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3065182/Rio-Ferdinand-s-wife-died-short-battle-cancer.html#ixzz3YyN3MVpE
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In a statement on the QPR website, Rio said that his 'soulmate has slipped away'.

Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-3065182/Rio-Ferdinand-s-wife-died-short-battle-cancer.html#ixzz3YyMyHjTF

So sad.

So sad. Man united shouldn't neglect Rio, he was a good player. #GGMU