‘He will remain in football folklore forever’: Leeds and England lead tributes to Jack Charlton as 1966 World Cup hero dies aged 85 after battle with lymphoma and dementia
Leeds United and the England national team were among the first to pay tribute to Jack Charlton after the 1966 World Cup died at the age of 85.
The former defender, who went on to make a club record 773 appearances for Leeds United, passed away following a battle against dementia and lymphoma.
The England national team social media account revealed that the Football Association was ‘devastated’ by the news.
A statement read: ‘We are devastated by the news that Jack Charlton, a member of our World Cup-winning team of 1966, has passed away.
Leeds United lead tributes to legend Jack Charlton after he passed away at the age of 85
‘Our deepest sympathies are with Jack’s family, friends and former clubs.’
Charlton was best known for his 21 years at Leeds United.
He is their club-record appearance maker and the Championship side produced a montage of his best moments for the club in a poignant tribute video.
In a statement, Leeds wrote in part: ‘Charlton’s contribution to the game and Leeds United will never be forgotten.
‘He will remain in football folklore forever and his records at Leeds United are unlikely ever to be surpassed.’
In action for Leeds against younger brother Bobby, of Manchester United in January 1969
He helped the Yorkshire club win the second division title in 1963-64 and then the first division in 1968-69.
This successful Leeds side also won the FA Cup in 1972, the League Cup in 1968 and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups in 1968 and 1971.
Despite not being called into the England team until days before his 30th birthday, Charlton won 35 caps and, playing alongside younger brother Bobby, lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy at Wembley in 1966.
He also helped England finish third at the 1968 European Championship and in between was voted the FWA Footballer of the Year in 1967.
In his post playing days, Charlton spent a period of time in charge of the Republic of Ireland national team.
The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) said in tribute: ‘The FAI is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Jack Charlton, the manager who changed Irish football forever. Our thoughts are with Pat and the family at this sad time.’
More to follow.
Charlton pictured in later life attending the funeral of former England keeper Gordon Banks