Terry Neill, a former captain and manager of Arsenal, has passed away at age 80.
When former manager Billy Wright gave him the armband in 1962, the midfielder, who made 275 first-team appearances for Arsenal and scored 10 goals in the process, was just 20 years old. He was the club’s youngest-ever captain.
Neill earned 44 caps while playing for his nation and captained Northern Ireland.
After finishing his playing career with Hull, Neill managed Tottenham for two years before returning to Arsenal as manager at the age of 34 in 1976.
Neill led Arsenal to three consecutive FA Cup finals, where they defeated Manchester United to win the trophy in 1979. He also led Arsenal to the 1980 European Cup Winners Cup final, where they lost to Valencia on penalties.
Arsenal issued a statement, which read: “Terry Neill’s status as both club captain and manager made him a major influence on 20th-century Arsenal.
“His fantastic contribution – and indeed his character – will always be appreciated by everyone associated with the club.
“His larger-than-life character and willingness to talk football with everyone always made him a well-liked figure at the club on matchdays.
“Our thoughts are with Terry’s family and close friends at this difficult time.”