Legendary manager Brian Clough, 69, died today after a battle with stomach cancer.
The double European Cup winning manager had members of his family at his bedside.
A spokeswoman for Derby City Hospital said that the manager was pronounced dead this morning.
Clough, who underwent a successful liver transplant in 2003, had been diagnosed with stomach cancer but only became seriously ill with the condition in the past week.
The hospital spokeswoman said: "It is with the deepest sadness that we announce that Brian Clough has died peacefully at the age of 69."
On behalf of the Clough family, she said: "The family would like to express their heartfelt thanks to Dr Jan Freeman and the staff of Ward 30 for the wonderful care they gave him.
"They would also like to thank the donor family for allowing Brian to have 21 months of health and happiness."
She confirmed that there will be a private family funeral and that a memorial service will be held at a later date, with details to be announced.
A Premier League spokesman said: "It is a sad and tragic loss for football. Brian Clough was in many people's eyes a football genius and one of the greatest managers who ever lived."
Football Association chairman Geoff Thompson described Brian Clough's death as a great loss to the game .
Thompson said: "On behalf of the FA, I would like to express my deepest sadness at the passing away of Brian Clough earlier today.
"Brian was not only a unique figure in the game but one of the most successful managers that we have ever known. We will be miss his company, his character and his insight.
"This is a great loss to football, but we will always remember his considerable contribution to the game in this country."
Filed by Barry McEneaney
