READING FC players past and present have been paying their tributes to Eamonn Dolan, who has died aged 48.

Royals Academy director Dolan beat testicular cancer earlier in his life, but the disease returned last year and he finally lost his battle yesterday afternoon.

Tragically, his premature death came only hours after Reading announced they had retained the top rating of Academy Category 1 status for another year.

Dolan joined the club in 2004 and was instrumental in the success of club's Academy for more than a decade.

He also worked closely with first-team players, many of whom have been sharing their memories on social media.

Former striker and fellow Irishman Noel Hunt paid an emotional tribute, saying: “From the first moment I met him, I knew he was a very special man.

“I've never met someone so full of passion, positivity and kindness.

“There was nothing that Eamonn would not do for anyone. He was truly a unique human being.

“I loved every single minute I spent in his company, whether it was our trip to Charlotte when we got stuck there for five weeks, or playing for him at Old Trafford when he took charge.

“Every minute was a true education and pleasure.”

Hunt, now with Southend United, continued: “Everyone who knew Eamonn will see this as a very sad day.

"But I have no doubt his philosophy on life and football will continue at Reading FC through people like Lee Heron, David Dodds and others he worked with.

“I know his philosophy will certainly live on in me.

“If I end up being half the man and coach Eamonn was I will be a very proud man.”

Hunt, 33, finishes: “Eamonn, my friend, my hero, I love you. Thank you for making me a better person. RIP.”

Dolan helped develop a string of Academy players who went on to play for the first team including midfielder Jem Karacan, now with Turkish giants Galatasaray.

“Words cannot describe how much Eamo will be missed, not only as my coach but as a father figure growing up,” said 27-year-old Karacan.

“I strongly believe myself and many others would not be where we are today without him as our mentor.

“For that I will be eternally grateful. My thoughts are with his family. R.I.P. Big Man.”

Ex-Reading striker Kevin Doyle, now with Colorado Rapids, tweeted: “Rest in peace, Eamonn. We will be forever grateful.”

Dolan took a teenage Long and slightly older Doyle under his wing when the pair were signed from Cork City, the club managed by Dolan's brother, Pat, in 2005.

Dolan was particularly supportive of Long when he lost his father at the age of 14.

The 29-year-old Southampton and Republic of Ireland forward tweeted: "Such an influential man in my career and has always been a true friend.

"Still finding it hard to believe. Rest in peace, Eamonn."

Simon Church, now with MK Dons and currently representing Wales at Euro 2016, also lost his father to cancer when he was with Reading's Academy.

He tweeted: “So influential in my career and life. Such a great man who was always there for me. He will never be forgotten.”

Royals defender Jake Cooper, 21, added: “Could never thank this man enough for everything he has done for me! Will be truly missed.”

Former Reading captain Ady Williams, now a BBC Radio Berkshire sports presenter, tweeted: “I swear I couldn't begin to tell you what Eamonn has done for Reading FC over the years. He was my mate and a terrific, wonderful human being.”

Meanwhile, Reading FC have opened a book of condolence in honour of Dolan.

It will be kept in the main reception at Madejski Stadium so that fans can leave their own personal messages.