HIGHLY-respected former Isle of Wight player and manager Phil Morris has died.

A minute’s silence was held before Shanklin Football Club's Island League Division 1 match against Brading Town, in his memory, on Saturday afternoon (January 18).

Phil, a former Shanklin captain, who also played for Ventnor Football Club, passed away last week.

A Shanklin FC spokesperson said: "Some of Phil’s former team-mates and family attended the game, creating a poignant moment to honour an Island football legend.

Phil Morris, front, fourth left with ball, when he played for Shanklin 40 years ago. (Image: Shanklin FC) "Following the sad news, we send our condolences to all the family and friends of Phil Morris — a true gentleman and a Ventnor FC legend.

"Phil was a successful player and manager with the club for many years and we be sadly missed."

Among the tributes on Ventnor FC's Facebook page, Ryan Woodford said: "Such a character Phil was! Remember kicking a ball up Watcombe Bottom and Phil always being around calling me Giggsy!

"Some of the best stories always involve him and dad. A proper family man. Thinking of the whole family and sending love."