Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil has paid a heartfelt tribute to his father as he announced his passing.

O'Neil took to Instagram to reveal the news, with his club leading the tributes in the comment section.

'Thanks for everything Dad!' the 43-year-old wrote. 'I couldn't have done any of it without you.

'You taught me football, you taught me values and you taught me how to look after everyone that's important to me.

'What an incredible example you set!! 'I'll miss you forever mate!

'Rest in peace, Dad!! Love you.'

Tributes flooded in from the footballing world, with Ipswich's official account commenting: 'The thoughts of everyone at Ipswich Town are with you and your family at this incredibly sad time, Gary.'

Aston Villa midfielder Joao Gomes, who played under O'Neil at Wolves, wrote, accompanied by a sad emoji: 'I'm sorry for you, Boss.'

O'Neil's daughter, Summer-Mae, wrote: 'Love you,' accompanied by a red heart emoji.

The former midfielder is in his first weeks in charge of Ipswich, having been appointed in the summer to replace Kieran McKenna.

He has so far led his side to two wins and two defeats in their four Premier League matches this season, and the Tractor Boys sit 10th in the table.

Ipswich were last in action on Tuesday, when they lost 4-2 against Arsenal in the League Cup, and will next play on Saturday, when they travel to Merseyside to take on Everton.