John Hughes dies at 79 as Celtic legend and Lisbon Lion passes away after short illness

Celtic legend John Hughes has died aged 79, his family have confirmed. The Parkhead icon and Lisbon Lion passed away in hospital following a short illness.

It was revealed last week that the former Celtic star had taken ill and his family have now released a statement announcing his passing. Hughes, known as "Yogi'", made 416 appearances and scored an incredible 189 goals across 11 seasons at Celtic and was part of the squad who blazed a trail to the 1967 European Cup success, agonisingly missing the Final through injury.

But, having played throughout the historic run, he still received a winners' medal and remains the club's eighth highest all-time goalscorer. His family's statement, released by son John on social media, paid tribute to a "dearly loved" husband, father and grandfather. The statement said: "John 'Yogi' Hughes, age 79, passed away peacefully in hospital today following a short illness. He was surrounded by his loving family. He was dearly loved and will be sorely missed.

"Always remembered & celebrated with love by his wife Theresa, his sons Kevin, Martin & John, his daughter Joanna, his six grandchildren and extended family. He now joins the ranks of those who will be immortal as long as there's a Glasgow Celtic. The family ask for privacy at this terribly difficult time and will release details of his funeral arrangements in due course."

After news of his passing was made public, Celtic released a tribute of their own to the legendary forward. A club statement said: "Everyone at Celtic Football Club is extremely sad to hear of the passing of Lisbon Lion, John ‘Yogi’ Hughes, who has died at the age of 79, and the thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club are with John's family and friends at this