England And Leeds United Legend ‘Jack Charlton’ Is Dead

England World Cup winner and legendary Leeds United defender ‘Jack Charlton’ has died aged 85.

Leeds confirmed the news that their former centre-back had passed away on Friday night following a long-term illness.

Charlton made a club record 773 appearances for the club over a 23-year period, becoming one of the all-time great central defenders of all time.

He won 35 caps for the English national team and played in every match during the 1966 world cup which England won, defeating West Germany 4-2 in the final at Wembley stadium.

Charlton was equally a successful manager guiding the Republic of Ireland to two world cup finals and an European Championship during his 10 year spell.

He joined Leeds in 1950 at the age of 15 as part of the ground staff, after which he signed a professional contract and was handed his debut against Doncaster Rovers on saturday, April 25, 1953.

‘Big Jack’ as fondly called was part of the club’s most suucessful era to date, helping them win promotion from the second division twice as runners up in 1955/1956 and champions in 1963/1964 season.

He was part of the team that won the league cup in 1968, the Inter-Cities Fairs cup in 1968 and 1971 respectively, the First Division in 1968/1969, the Charity Shield in 1969 and the FA Cup in 1972.

Charlton won his first England cap on April 10, 1965 in the game against Scotland and was part of Sir Alf Ramsay ‘s England World cup squad in 1966.

He retired from playing at the end of the 1972/973 season, with his final match coming against southampton on April 28, 1973.

In his astonishing record total of 773 appearances, Charlon scored 96 times for Leeds, making him the club’s ninth highest goal scorer in the club’s history.

A stateent from his family said; “Jack died peacefully on Friday 10 july aged 85”

He was at home in Northumberland, with his family by his side.

“As well as a friend to many, he was a much-adorned 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.

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

“His loss will surely leave a huge hole in all of our lives but in all, we are extremely thankful for a life well lived filled with happy memories