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Football Icon Jack Charlton Has Died Aged 85

Football Icon Jack Charlton Has Died Aged 85

His family has said he passed away peacefully at his home in Northumberland

Simon Fearn

Simon Fearn

Former footballer Jack Charlton, famous for being part of the English team that won the World Cup in 1966, has died aged 85.

Jack's family said he died peacefully in his home in Northumberland yesterday (10 July).

A statement from them reads: "As well as a friend to many, he was a much-adored husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

"We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life.

Jack Charlton (right) celebrates with the 1966 England team after they won the World Cup.
PA

"He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people.

"His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories."

Jack, brother of Bobby Charlton, was a defender who played for Leeds United from 1950 to 1973, the length of his playing career.

The club tweeted to say they were 'deeply saddened to learn club legend Jack Charlton passed away last night at the age of 85'.

Charlton played for England 35 times, including two World Cups, most famously on the team that beat West Germany 4-2 to win the championship in 1966.

After retiring as a player, Charlton went on to have a successful career as a manager, taking charge of Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle and the Republic of Ireland national team.

Jack Charlton in 1995 during his time as the Republic of Ireland team's manager.
PA

He took the latter team to their first major finals by qualifying for the Euros 1988, with the team also qualifying for the 1990 and 1994 World Cups while he was manager.

Many have taken to Twitter to express their sadness at Jack's passing.

Gary Lineker wrote: "Saddened to hear that Jack Charlton has passed away. World Cup winner with England, manager of probably the best ever Ireland side and a wonderfully infectious personality to boot. RIP Jack."

Former Irish professional footballer Andy Reid wrote: "As an 8 year old I went to the homecoming of the Ireland team from Italia 90, hundreds of thousands of people lined the streets! Jack Charlton started something that we are all benefiting from! Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

The official Twitter account of the England team wrote: "We are devastated by the news that Jack Charlton, a member of our World Cup-winning team of 1966, has passed away. Our deepest sympathies are with Jack's family, friends and former clubs."

Featured Image Credit: PA

Topics: UK News