Former Aston Villa striker Stan Collymore has confirmed the passing of his mother, Doreen, aged 94.

The 53-year-old, who made 61 appearances for Villa between 1997 and 1999, posted the update to social media on Sunday. In a post on X, he wrote: "It's with the most profound sadness and deepest sorrow to announce the passing of my beautiful Mom, Doreen Collymore today, aged 94.

"Many people in Cannock, at Villa and clubs I played for knew her and always asked how she was which she loved and appreciated, so passing on the news is for those who may have met her, however briefly, to pay their respects.

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"I held her hand and stroked her head as she passed on and although grief is very fresh, as a Son my gratitude for being lucky enough to have such a genuinely wonderful person as my Mom is my overriding emotion today and always will be.

"I'll post funeral arrangements for those who knew her and who can join us to celebrate her life in due course. The 2 photos are the first and last we had together, and what a journey in between. "Mom, why do you love me?" "Because you're mine."

Collymore's footballing journey started in Walsall's youth set-up before moving to rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Staffordshire-born striker joined non league side Stafford Rangers in 1990 after being released by Wolves.

His goals saw him work his way up the leagues to the attention of Premier League giants Liverpool and England. After two seasons at Anfield, Collymore joined Villa, the club he had supported as a boy.