The Southampton owner Markus Liebherr has died at the age of 62. The cause of his death was not disclosed in a lengthy statement released by the club.
Liebherr, a Germany-born Swiss construction magnate, led a takeover of the League One club in July last year, taking them out of administration ahead of a season in which they won the Johnstone's Paint Trophy and narrowly missed out on the play-offs, despite the handicap of a 10-point deduction.
The news was announced on Southampton's website, in a statement paying tribute to Liebherr. "His passing will come as an enormous shock to everyone but most particularly, of course, to his family and wide circle of friends," it said. "Our thoughts are with them at this very difficult time.
"Anyone who came to know Markus learned of his quick wit, love of football – most especially Saints football – and his unquenchable thirst for better knowledge of all things. Anyone who had the privilege of meeting Markus met a man who was quiet, unassuming, undemonstrative and fantastic fun to be with.
"The welcome that Markus was given when he arrived at the Saints just over a year ago was something that gave him a deep sense of pride and satisfaction. The progress of the Saints was always uppermost in his mind. To say he will be missed is an unmistakable understatement."
A book of condolence will be made available to Southampton fans and a memorial service will be held "in due course", the club said.