FORMER Everton and Liverpool defender Gary Ablett has died – aged 46 – following a 16-month battle against non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the League Managers Association announced today.

Ablett took up a coaching role with Ipswich Town alongside manager Roy Keane in July 2010 following a period of managing Stockport County.

However, he was taken ill while at the club’s Playford Road training ground and was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

An LMA statement read: “On behalf of Gary Ablett’s family the LMA has today confirmed that Gary passed away peacefully last night following a hard fought 16-month battle against non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

“Respected throughout the game by players, coaches and managers alike Gary will be sadly missed.

“The LMA’s thoughts and condolences are with Gary’s wife Jacqueline and children.”