Photos: Leeds United Legend and World Cup winner Jack Charlton dies at 85

Former Leeds and England defender Jack Charlton. Photo: PAUL ELLIS/AFP via Getty Images

Photos ⬇ Jack Charlton, the former Leeds and England defender who won a World Cup winner's medal in 1966, has died. He was 85.


Charlton had been diagnosed with lymphoma in the last year and was also battling dementia.

He spent his entire 21-year playing career at Leeds, making a joint club record 773 appearances, before retiring as a player in 1973 and going on to enjoy a successful and colourful career as a manager.

One of English football's most popular and larger-than-life characters, he had spells in charge of Sheffield Wednesday, Middlesbrough, Newcastle and the Republic of Ireland, who he guided to their first major finals at Euro 88 and two more in the space of 10 years.

A family statement read: "Jack died peacefully on Friday, July 10 at the age of 85. He was at home in Northumberland, with his family by his side.

"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."

Photo of the Legend during his playing days ⬇

Leeds United players Billy Bremner (left) and Jack Charlton hold the trophy aloft after Leeds United beat Arsenal 1-0 to win the 1972 FA Cup Final at Wembley Stadium in London on 6th May 1972. Photo: Chris Smith/Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images

Jackie Charlton of Leeds United Football Club lifts the trophy after his team won the F.A. Cup Final in 1971. Photo: © Hulton-Deutsch Collection/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

Jack Charlton of Leeds United in action against Arsenal during their Division One football match at Highbury on 11th September 1971. Arsenal beat Leeds United 2-0. Photo: Ed Lacey/Popperfoto via Getty Images/Getty Images

Leeds United v Everton, Leeds United's Jack Charlton and Billy Bremner are watched by Everton forward Joe Royle. Photo: Bob Thomas Sports Photography via Getty Images