The family of former Middlesbrough goalkeeper Alan Miller have issued a heartfelt statement to supporters after he passed away aged 51.

Miller passed away earlier this month due to a heart attack and thousands of tributes were paid to the former shotstopper. He played for Boro for three seasons during 1994 to 1997 and was part of the team that achieved promotion to the Premier League in 1995.

The family of Miller have thank the Boro supporters for their overwhelming gratitude after the news broke of his death. 

“While we are still coming to terms with the shock of losing Alan so suddenly two weeks ago, the love and support shown to him from Boro fans has provided us with great strength.

"Alan loved his time with Middlesbrough. It was a big step for him when he first moved from Arsenal in 1994, but it was made easy for him due to the wonderful friendly welcome he received. 

"He was so proud to be one of Bryan Robson’s first signings and to be part of the exciting team that won promotion and opened the Riverside Stadium.

"As a family we used to come up for many of the games and it was always an enjoyable experience for us all including Alan’s greatly missed Dad – John.

"The people at the football club in the various departments became a family to Alan and the new players. Alan became good friends with Neil Cox and many other members of the squad - and they loved living in the area.

"Alan was really made to feel welcome by the fans in and around the town and in Yarm and he always spoke glowingly about this period of his life. 

"He really enjoyed returning for matches or former player events and the area undoubtedly held a special place in heart.

"While this is understandably a difficult time for the family, we would like to place on record our sincere thanks to everyone who has contacted us directly, spoken in the media or on social media so positively about Alan. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts and know that Alan would have appreciated the love for him so much.”

Miller’s funeral will take place on Friday 25 June, but due to Covid, restrictions will be limited to a small number of people.