Paul Merson pays tribute to "phenomenal" Don Howe

Former Arsenal midfielder Paul Merson has heaped praise on Don Howe after the ex-Gunners boss passed away aged 80 this afternoon.

Howe enjoyed a successful playing career with West Bromwich Albion and Arsenal, but it was as a coach that he truly made his name, including helping the Gunners to four FA Cup finals.

During his time in charge at Highbury he also saw the likes of Merson, Tony Adams and David Rocastle progress through the ranks, and Merson believes that he was the best in the world during his prime.

"He gave me a contract when a lot of people wouldn't," he told Sky Sports News.

"He was so far ahead of his time it was scary. You talk about the Wengers and people like that, he was the best coach in the world of football, not just in England in the world of football. He was a phenomenal, phenomenal coach.

"You won't find anyone in the game that had a bad word to say about Don Howe. He was one of the nicest blokes I have ever met."

Howe was also an influential figure at international level, coaching England under Ron Greenwood, Sir Bobby Robson and Terry Venables.