He was Celtic's greatest captain of Celtic's greatest ever side. 

Today, Lisbon Lion Billy McNeill died after a battle with dementia at the age of 79.

READ MORE: Celtic legend Billy McNeill dies aged 79 

Tributes have flooded in for the Celtic legend who became the first British player to lift the European Cup after captaining Jock Stein's famous Lisbon Lions side to a 2-1 victory over Inter Milan.

READ MORE: Tributes paid to Celtic legend Billy McNeill 

McNeill's 790 competitive appearances for Celtic is a club record, with the defender featuring for the Parkhead club between 1957 and 1975.

McNeill's family released the following statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our father Billy McNeill. He passed away late last night (Monday, April 22) surrounded by his family and loved ones.

READ MORE: Peter Lawwell pays tribute to 'hero and friend' Billy McNeill 

"He suffered from Dementia for a number of years and fought bravely to the end, showing the strength and fortitude he always has done throughout his life. "We would also like to note our love and appreciation to our mother, Liz, for the care, devotion and love she gave to our father throughout his illness. No one could have done any more.

"Whilst this is a very sad time for all the family and we know our privacy will be respected, our father always made time for the supporters so please tell his stories, sing his songs and help us celebrate his life."