FORMER Birmingham star Robert Hopkins has died at the age of 64.
The Blues Hall of Famer’s death was confirmed on Sunday.
Hopkins was a tricky winger in his prime and clocked up 300 Football League appearances.
But he is best known for making a controversial move from Aston Villa to Birmingham in 1983.
Having played just three times for Villa, Hopkins went on to star 123 times for Brum – scoring 20 goals in the process.
He then spent time at Manchester City before returning to the Midlands with West Brom in 1987.
After 83 games there, Hopkins then rejoined Birmingham and spent two years there before seeing out his career with the likes of Shrewsbury Town and Colchester United.
The 1980 FA Youth Cup winner with Villa eventually retired from playing at the turn of the millennium.
Birmingham City paid tribute on social media, saying: “The Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of a much loved former player, Robert Hopkins.
“The former winger played 207 times for the Blues and became a cult hero amongst fans thanks to his no-nonsense mentality and passion for the game.
“One of our own, who not only played for the Club, but supported home and away once his playing days had finished.
“Everyone at the club sends their thoughts and condolences to ‘Hoppo’s’ friends and family.”
Former club West Brom also hailed Hopkins online.
They wore black armbands in his honour in their FA Cup third-round clash against Swansea on Sunday too.
A statement read: “West Bromwich Albion are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Robert Hopkins.
“The thoughts of everyone at The Hawthorns are with his friends, family and loved ones. Rest in peace, Robert.”
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