Notts County Coach Tommy Johnson was amongst the mourners who attended the funeral of Phil O'Donnell last Friday, and he has today paid tribute to his former team-mate and close friend.

O'Donnell tragically died whilst playing for Motherwell just over a week ago after suffering a heart failure just before he was to be substituted in their 5-3 win over Dundee United.

Johnson and O'Donnell played together at Celtic between 1997 and 1999, and also at Sheffield Wednesday in 2001.

The pair were close friends and enjoyed family holiday's away together, and Johnson has been truly saddened by the news.

"Myself and Phil were really good friends; our families went away together and we got on really well," said Tommy.

"When I heard the news, I was simply devastated and my thoughts are with Eileen, his kids and their family.

"It was such a pity to catch up with old friends last week in such terrible circumstances.

"Phil was a terrific footballer who was unlucky with injuries, and he was a real family man.

"He will be sadly missed and it was a testament to how well respected he was that so many turned up to pay their last respects."