Gary Lineker pays subtle tribute to nineties pop legend Dario G while presenting the Euros - after his death aged 53 from Stage 4 rectal cancer

Gary Lineker paid subtle tribute to nineties pop legend Dario G while presenting the Euros on BBC on Tuesday night.

Nineties pop legend Dario G died aged 53 from rectal cancer, a statement on his social media announced on Monday.

Dario G, real name Paul Spencer, took to social media last summer to reveal that he had been diagnosed with Stage 4 rectal cancer. 

And at the end of Gary presenting the Portugal vs Czech Republic match on the BBC Euros show, highlights of the game were then shown. 

The song chosen to accompany the clips, was Dario G's iconic Sunchyme tune.

Fans watching at home were quick to react to the subtle tribute as they posted o X, writing: 'Classy tribute to Dario G here',

'Don't know who's idea it was to play out @BBCMOTD with Dario G but it was a lovely touch'. 

Gary was joined by his colleagues Alan Shearer, Cesc Fabregas and Frank Lampard in the studio to give their verdict on the football.

Dario G had strong football connections as his tune Carnival De Paris became the official song of the 1998 Fifa World Cup. 

Paul rose to fame in 1997 as part of the Cheshire dance trio Dario G. 

The DJ has documented his diagnosis on social media, sharing health updates with his fans and showing his reality day-to-day. But sadly a statement was released on his Instagram on Monday announcing the DJ had passed away.

Tributes poured in for the DJ from the likes of Youtuber Stevo Timothy, Capital Breakfast's Chris Stark and record producer Sigala, who all hailed him a 'star'.

The statement announcing Paul had passed away read: 'It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Paul Spencer earlier today.

'He was positive until the end but this was one battle he could not fight anymore. He leaves behind a wonderful musical legacy and many happy memories for many people.

'He will be sadly missed by everyone who loved him. Shine bright our big star - K, A & H xxx.'

YouTuber Stevo Timothy took to X, formerly Twitter, to pay tribute to his 'good friend' Paul.

He wrote: 'I just got news that the legend that is Dario G has sadly passed on to the other realm. The rave scene has lost a giant, from 'Carnaval de Paris' that became synonymous with the World Cup in 98 to the glorious Sunchyme'. But more that that, he was Paul, he was a friend and a good friend. 

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'I first met him when he came to our show in Manchester and I was astounded by his warmness, his friendliness and his supportive nature. We met up countless times since then in Ireland and the UK and every time he was such a consummate gentleman. 

'On stage he was a ball of energy with his favourite trumpet absolutely belting out the tunes. We only spoke a few weeks ago and his positivity was unbelievable. He never lost that good nature despite his illness and what the world threw at him. 

'I'll miss you Paul, in a world of egos, narcissism, and attitudes, you were the epitome of goodness. I hope they let you belt out the trumpet in heaven.'

Capital Breakfast host Christ Stark shared one of Paul's songs as he paid tribute, saying: 'Just one of the loveliest, supportive, brilliantly creative people I’ve ever known. Paul Spencer.

'If you have a few mins. Put this on loud and think of all the good things in life. This will bring smiles forever mate.'

BBC radio presenter Phil Taggart wrote: 'Such sad news about the passing of Paul Spencer (Dario G ). He fought a hard fight against his illness. RIP.'

Liverpool FC Matchday DJ George Sephton said: 'If you have been to Anfield will have heard the wonderful electro-pop version of Ring of Fire It was created by the supremely talented Dario G.

'In reality he was my friend Paul Spencer. A lovely guy who I regret to say has passed away today at the age of 52 R.I.P. Paul.'

DJ Sigala commented on the post announcing his death, saying: 'That’s so sad. A true inspiration, he brought joy to so many people ☀️ and will live on forever through his music.

'Paul told me many times over the last year “Go get yourself checked” so I’m passing on that message to anyone reading this, as I’m sure he would want me to. Our health should be more of a priority! He will be missed greatly. Sending love to his family, rest in peace buddy xx.'

Radio presenter Mistajam said: 'Sending love & sincere condolences to his friends and family. Rest in Peace, thank you for the music.'

Paul revealed last summer that he had been diagnosed with stage four rectal cancer.

The musician shared the sad news with fans on Twitter, but vowed he's 'staying positive' as he prepares to discuss the next steps with doctors.

Posting an image from a recent performance, Dario wrote: 'Hard to write this. I've just found out that I've got stage 4 rectal cancer and a shadow on my liver. That's damn hard to read too I'm sure.

'Gonna give it my best shot though. Stay positive, cos I am. Always. Seeing the doctors on Friday to discuss the next steps.'

He ended his post with '#f**kcancer' and a four-leaf clover Emoji.

After sharing the diagnosis, Paul was flooded with messages of support, with one writing: 'Sending all my love.'

A second put: 'Stay Strong,' as a third then wrote: 'I am so so sorry. Sending all my love xx.'

In April, Paul shared an update on his condition, writing: 'I’m a fighter but wow this is a fight. I’d appreciated your love, prayers, healing energy & vibes. 

'A cure would be pretty useful too :) Currently in hospital for acute pain. Radio therapy next week. 

'Looking to future therapies too. Thank you all. Happy thoughts only please. Happy.'

Rectal cancer is a disease in which cancerous cells form in the tissues of the rectum, and signs can include blood in stools, irregular bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or a change in appetite.

Stage four cancer is where the cancer has spread from where it started to another organ in the body and is often called secondary cancer. 

When caught early enough, rectal cancer is relatively treatable. 

Paul was previously part of the electronic music trio known as Dario G, with their house track Sunchyme reaching Number Two in the charts.

The song's iconic video featured dancers in safari costumes and matching makeup.

While the trio has since disbanded, Paul continues to perform under its stage name. 

More recently, Paul took to the stage for the Biggest 90s Disco, which featured fellow music legends Vengaboys, 2 Unlimited, Haddaway and Phats & Small.

Snaps from his recent performances showed Paul delighting crowds in venues across the UK by playing the electric piano and performing Sunchyme.

In 1997, Dario G reached number five in the charts, with their follow-up single Carnaval de Paris, which was later made the official song of the 1998 FIFA World Cup, which was held in France.