JIMMY GREAVES has paid tribute to great friend Ian St John after the former Liverpool and Scotland striker’s death at the age of 82 following a long illness.

St John made more than 400 appearances for Liverpool, helping them claim two league titles, and scored the winning goal in the 1965 FA Cup final as the Reds got their hands on the famous trophy for the first time.

He won a new generation of fans after his playing retirement, presenting the popular Saturday-afternoon football show Saint & Greavsie alongside former Tottenham and England forward Greaves.

Greaves paid homage to his on-screen partner after Liverpool confirmed St John had died on Monday evening.

“We are very sad to hear the Saint has passed away,” a statement on Greaves’ official Twitter account read.

“Ian St John and I had great fun working on the Saint & Greavsie [show]. He was a lovely man & will be sadly missed by many many people. We must also remember he was a great footballer for Bill Shankly’s Liverpool and beyond.”

St John began his career with Motherwell in 1957, scoring 80 goals in 113 league games.

The Scottish Premiership club said: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of Ian St John. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”

St John represented Scotland 21 times, scoring nine goals.