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Chelsea pay poignant tribute to Gianluca Vialli by turning their badge on social media black and white out of respect for former striker who passed away after battle with cancer

Chelsea have made a poignant change to their social media accounts following the death of club legend Gianluca Vialli.

Vialli died surrounded by family on Thursday night following a five-year battle with pancreatic cancer. He has been married to his wife Cathryn White-Cooper since 2003 and the pair had two daughters together - Olivia and Sofia.

'We thank the many who have supported him over the years with their affection. The memory of him and his example will live forever in our hearts,' his family wrote in a statement.

Chelsea have made a poignant tribute to Gianluca Vialli by turning their badge black and white
Gianluca Vialli (pictured) on Italy duty in September, has died at the age of 58 with cancer

Vialli gained popularity in England when he moved to Chelsea in 1996 and later became their manager, leading them to the European Cup Winners' Cup and the League Cup in 1998, plus the FA Cup in 2000.