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Johan Cruyff in his heyday

Netherlands footballing great, Johan Cruyff, has died of cancer aged 68.

Cruyff, who made his name as a forward with Ajax and Barcelona, was European footballer of the year three times.

He won three consecutive European Cups with Ajax from 1971, coached Barcelona to their first European Cup triumph in 1992 and helped the Dutch reach the 1974 World Cup final, where they lost 2-1 to West Germany.

The Dutch FA said: “Words can hardly be found for this huge loss.”

It added: “The greatest Dutch footballer of all time and one of the world’s best ever. Our condolences go to his wife, family, friends and the entire football world at home and abroad. We wish everyone a lot of strength in this difficult time.”

Holland’s friendly against France on Friday will stop after 14 minutes for a minute-long silence in tribute to Cruyff, who wore number 14 as a player.

Barcelona FC expressed “its pain and sorrow” at the news of his death, adding: “We will always love you, Johan. Rest in peace.”

Gary Lineker, a former Barcelona player, said: “Football has lost a man who did more to make the beautiful game beautiful than anyone in history.”

Cruyff scored 293 goals in 521 appearances for five different clubs -including 204 in 276 games while winning 18 trophies in two spells for Ajax.

He first showcased the “Cruyff turn” at the 1974 World Cup in a match against Sweden and scored 33 goals in 48 internationals. — BBC Sport