Paul Holmes dead aged 56: Tributes pour in for former Premier League star after passing away

FORMER Everton star Paul Holmes has died at the age of 56.

The right-back passed away peacefully after a battle with cancer and leaves behind his wife Kate.

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Holmes joined the Toffees in 1993 from Birmingham City and played 28 times for the club.

His best moment at Everton came as he helped the team to a 2-0 Merseyside derby win over Liverpool in September 1993.

That day Everton came out on top thanks to goals from Mark Ward and Tony Cottee.

His final game for the club came against Feyenoord in the European Cup Winners’ Cup in October 1995, which they drew 0-0.

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He left Goodison Park in 1996 as he moved to West Brom.

He stayed with the Baggies until 1999 and joined Torquay United, where he would finally retire in 2003.

Tributes have poured in for the former footballer on social media.

One fan posted: "RIP Paul. Deepest sympathy to your family and friends."

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A second wrote: "Very sad news, RIP Paul."

A third commented: "Very sad to hear this news. Paul was a fine player."

A fourth said: "Terrible news RIP Paul."

Another added: "Awful news, thoughts go out to his family."

Former Everton team-mate Ian Snodin has also paid tribute to Holmes.

He said: "I knew Paul was unwell, but I am deeply shocked by his passing.

"He was a fine player and a lovely guy to share a dressing room with.

"He got on well with all the lads and he was unfortunate not to play more games."

The club added in a statement: "Everyone at Everton Football Club is deeply saddened by the death of our former defender Paul Holmes.

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"Paul was just 56 years of age and passed away after a brave battle with cancer. RIP, Paul."

Holmes had football in his family as his dad, Albert Holmes, was a legend for Chesterfield having played for the club between 1960–1976.