Tributes have flooded in from across football following the death of former Chelsea goalkeeper Peter Bonetti at the age of 78.

The legendary stopper, nicknamed ‘The Cat’ for his rapid reflexes, had been suffering from a long-term illness and passed away on Sunday, the club confirmed.

In his professional career he made an incredible 729 appearances for Chelsea – a total only bettered by his captain, Ron Harris – and won numerous individual accolades as well as the FA Cup, League Cup and Uefa Cup Winners’ Cup.

Former Blues goalkeeper Petr Cech led the tributes to Bonetti, who had held the club’s all-time clean sheets record before the Czech surpassed his achievement in January 2014.

Cech reacted to the news tweeting: “Really sad news for everyone from @ChelseaFC family … R.I.P. “The Cat” … Legend”.

As part of a eulogy detailing Bonetti’s illustrious career, a club statement read: “Chelsea Football Club is hugely saddened to announce the passing today of one of our indisputably all-time great players, Peter Bonetti.

“Our former goalkeeper had been suffering from long-term illness. All at Chelsea wish to send our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Peter’s family and friends.”

Ex-Chelsea defender Frank Sinclair described Bonetti, who was part of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad, as a “brilliant character”.

“Sad news that Peter Bonetti has passed away today,” he wrote. “Brilliant character that will sadly be missed by all Blues ChelseaFC. RiP Peter #Legend”.

The official account for the England national team marked his death with an image of Bonetti from the 1960s.

“We’re deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Peter Bonetti. Peter was part of our FIFA Worl Cup winning squad and represented the #ThreeLions seven times,” it read.

“Our thoughts are with his family, friends and supporters at this time.”

Legendary England striker Gary Lineker sent his condolences to his former colleague, having worked alongside Bonetti in the national team setup.

“So sorry to hear that Peter Bonetti has passed away. He was a terrific goalkeeper for @ChelseaFC for so many years. Got to know him when he was @England’s goalkeeping coach and he was a delightful bloke. RIP The Cat.”