Former Sheffield Wednesday player, Ian Mellor died earlier this week aged 74 and Sheffield Wednesday fans have shared their tributes.
Following the news, fans and sports lovers released tributes to the late Wednesday ‘hero.’
Mellor’s son, Neil also once played for Sheffield Wednesday on loan from Preston North End and has shared his tribute.
He said: “My dad, my hero. I love you, thank you for everything.
“We are all absolutely devastated to have lost my Dad.”
Ian Mellor played for the Owls from 1979, where he made a total of 79 appearances and scored 11 goals.
Mellor scored the first goal in what became known as the ‘Boxing Day Massacre’, where the Owls won a four point lead over their Sheffield United neighbours.
Sheffield Wednesday said, “The owls are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Ian Mellor. Our thoughts are with Ian’s family and friends at this very difficult time. RIP spider.”
The nickname ‘spider’ was something he gained, during his earlier career as a striker at Brighton and Hove Albion FC.
It was a name that remained with him due to his long legs.
Ian Mellor had been battling amyloidosis, a rare disease that affects the organs causing them to not work as they should.
Neil Mellor continued to pay tribute to his late father, and thanked St Ann’s Hospice and their staff who helped during the last days.