Here are just a few of the comments received:

"On behalf of Eldon Celtic Football Club, a youth football club based in Reading, Berkshire, may I as Chairman offer my sincere condolences to the family of Keith Alexander.

"Our club has several afro-caribbean Managers and Coaches, and a large proportion of our player community of around 200 players are from similiar backgrounds.

"If ever we need to look for a true Ambassador for the beautiful game then we simply have to remember the gentleman that Keith was.

"He will be truly missed.

Yours in Sport
Malcolm Hillen
Chairman, Eldon Celtic Football Club"

"The bloke was a true man, a great ambassaddor to football, both at non-league and Football League level, and will truly be missed."
Jamie Clarke, former Ilkeston striker now at Boston United.

"Keith was a manager who you wanted to play for and a true gentleman. You couldn't wish to meet and play under a better manager. His knowledge of non-league football to this day cannot be under-estimated and I could contact him anytime and he would give me his time."
John Knapper, former Ilkeston Town captain.

"I signed for Ilkeston after being released from Sheffield Wednesday, and we had probably the best non-league side at the time.

"Keith was a true football legend, he loved the game. His team talks were ace, wasn't too bothered about the opposition because he knew we would score goals.

"if the opposition scored two we scored four or more. Football will miss him"
Craig Ludlam, former Ilkeston defender

"Keith signed me from Kettering and was a great guy and excellent manager. He would always have time to talk to the fans and was one of the great characters of the game.

"I know his son Matt who is an agent and my heart goes out to all the family."
Paul Cox, former Ilkeston defender and now manager of Eastwood Town

"I will always hold an image of Keith as a kind and strong character who valued honesty and commitment. I know many will miss his cheerful demeanour and passion for the game. One of a kind."
Mark Quayle, former Ilkeston striker

"Keith would always be willing to help and put me at ease. He was a wholesome guy on and off the pitch, for whom nothing was too much trouble. I saw him regularly and am shocked by the news."
Paul Tilford, former Ilkeston club official and acting secretary

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