PETER Shilton has today paid tribute to Diego Maradona, following the Argentina legend's death.

Shilton, who lives on Mersea Island, was England's goalkeeper when the “Hand of God” incident took place at the 1986 World Cup Finals, in Mexico.

Maradona's controversial handball goal against England paved the way for Argentina to win their quarter-final 2-1 and go on and win the tournament.

But Shilton, England's most capped male player, has taken to social media to pay his respects to Maradona, who has died at the age of 60.

Writing on Twitter, he said: 'Maradona was the greatest footballer I ever played against without question, it’s so sad that in recent years he suffered with health and addiction my thoughts go out to his family this icon was taken far to soon #RIPDiego'

The 'Hand of God' incident remains today one of the most controversial moments in World Cup – and indeed sporting – history.

When Maradona jumped for a high ball with Shilton in England’s tense quarter-final with Argentina and palmed it in with his hand, the incident was not spotted by the match officials.

The goal was allowed to stand and helped Argentina on their way to a 2-1 victory and a place in the semi-finals.

Speaking to the Gazette in 2014, Shilton admitted that the goal being allowed to stand was a 'bitter pill to swallow'.

“I don’t think forgive is the right word but we were let down on a big decision by the officials,”

said Shilton, who enjoyed a glittering playing career spanning three decades and a world-record 1,000 competitive appearances.

“It was more the fact that he didn’t say sorry or show any kind of remorse after the game.

“It was disappointing that he didn’t hold his hands up afterwards and say to us “I’m sorry, I cheated”.

“But I think Maradona did what a lot of players would have done – even Gary Lineker said he would have done the same.

“Sometimes, it’s a reactionary thing but we were let down by the referee and the linesman and that’s what riled us.”