BOSS Sammy McIlroy has paid tribute to Keith Alexander after the Macclesfield manager's tragic death.

After hearing of the death of Alexander at the age of just 53, Sammy said: "Keith was a great football man and his death is a tragedy.

"He was a truly honest man who always gave 100% and just loved football. I've been in his company many a time and we had some great conversations about football.

"His death is a major loss to football and he will be sorely missed. My thoughts are with his family at this time.''