Tommy Sheridan has paid a touching tribute to US rapper Coolio today following the news of his death aged 59.

The pair formed an unlikely friendship while appearing together on Celebrity Big Brother together in 2009 and went on to remain close pals over the years.

Sheridan tweeted this morning: "Devastated by the sad news this morning.

"This guy was multi-talented, great fun and larger than life. He will be missed by everyone who knows and loved him.

"You will never walk alone pal.

"Rest In Peace #Coolio"

Alongside the heartfelt message, Sheridan posted a photo of himself and the star clad in Celtic scarfs.

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During a visit to Glasgow in 2017, the duo famously attended a match at Parkhead with Coolio carrying out the Paradise Windfall Draw, much to the delight of the crowds.

Months before then in an interview with the Glasgow Times, The Gangsta's Paradies rapper said: "Tommy Sheridan is my good friend.

"I will probably go to his house for dinner when I come to Scotland like I did last time.

“He has a lovely family.

"Hopefully we will get a chance to hang out, I would like to introduce him to some of my friends.

“Tommy is good people.

"I like his conviction. He stands up for what he believes in and I like that.”

Coolio, whose legal name was Artis Leon Ivey Jr, died at the Los Angeles home of a friend on Wendesday.