Former Reading forward Francis Joseph has passed away aged 62.

A journeyman striker during the 1980s and 1990s, Joseph spent a part of 1987/88 campaign at Elm Park, scoring twice in 11 appearances in the season of Simod Cup success.

Best-known for his earlier spells with Wimbledon and Brentford, scoring 44 in 110 matches for the Bees immediately prior to joining the Biscuitmen, he also had spells playing in Belgium and America.

He became the Dons' first black player in the Football League upon making his debut in 1980.

Winding down his career in the non-league pyramid, Joseph featured for local sides Slough Town and Wokingham Town in the early 1990s.

Among stars paying tribute are Sheffield United teammate Brian Deane, who said: "Sad news this morning hearing Francis Joseph has passed away. Another one I’m grateful to for some early memories in football. What a guy."

Wally Downes Jr, son of Wimbledon legend and former Royals coach Wally Downes, also commented: "Francis Joseph was a wonderful monster of a man who my family really loved. He was hugely & rightly proud of his boy Zak. Spoke to him last month when he called to talk boxing & we laughed for about an hour. He was still ready & willing to fight absolutely everyone."