LONDON, July 11, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – Jack Charlton, a member of the
England 1966 World Cup winning side and who went on to become a cult
hero in Ireland, has died aged 85, his family announced on Saturday.
Charlton — elder brother of his fellow World Cup winning team-mate
Bobby — was an integral part of the great Don Revie managed Leeds
United side that won the 1969 League title and the 1972 FA Cup.
Charlton also enjoyed a fairytale spell as manager of the Republic
of Ireland guiding them to several major finals — advancing to the
1990 World Cup quarter-finals.
Such was his achievement with Ireland that he was awarded the
Republic’s most distinguished award, honorary Irish citizenship in
1996.
“Jack died peacefully on Friday, July 10 at the age of 85. He was
at home in Northumberland, with his family by his side,” read a family
statement.
“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.
“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.”
Leeds issued their own trbute to ‘Big Jack’ whose uncompromising
style as a defender epitomised the rugged side to the Revie era.
“Leeds United are deeply saddened to learn club legend Jack
Charlton passed away last night at the age of 85 following a long-term
illness,” read a Leeds statement.
“Charlton made a club record 773 appearances for Leeds United over
a 23-year period as a player, becoming one of the all-time great
central defenders in the game.”
– ‘Best manager I played under’ –
Brother Bobby’s club Manchester United also paid tribute.
“We are extremely saddened by the passing of Jack Charlton, brother
of Sir Bobby and member of England’s 1966 World Cup-winning team,”
they said.
“Our deepest condolences go to all the Charlton family for their
immensely sad loss.”
His grand daughter Kate Wilkinson gave an insight into the private
side of the outwardly gruff man who is the sixth member of England’s
1966 winning side to die.
“Yesterday was a very sad day. My grandad, Jack Charlton, died
peacefully at home.
“He was kind, playful and genuine, and I’ll miss him so much.”
The 35-times capped Charlton managed at club level too but it was
by turning Ireland from no hopers into a respected national side —
though with a distinctly no frills and direct style — that he will be
remembered.
A memorable win over England at Euro 1988 was followed by a run to
the last eight in the 1990 World Cup where they lost to Italy.
They also reached the last 16 in the 1994 World Cup.
Charlton secured the likes of Scotland-born Ray Houghton and
England-born Andy Townsend and John Aldridge after unearthing some
family links to Ireland.
The players reflected the thrill he had given them in tributes
earlier this year when he turned 85.
Former Liverpool star Aldridge described him as the “best manager I
played under” whilst ex Chelsea star Townsend poked affectionate fun
at him and his famed outdoor hobbies.
“I hope you’re behaving yourself and you’re not out shooting and
fishing and going to the pub during this lockdown,” wrote Townsend.
Charlton is the third member of Revie’s Leeds side to die this year
with Norman Hunter and Trevor Cherry also passing away.