Jack Charlton dies after long-term illness as Leeds United mourn loss of record-breaking club legend

The former centre-back spent his entire career with Leeds and made a club record 773 appearances between 1953 and 1973, helping the Whites win a First Division title, a Second Division title, two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups, an FA Cup, a League Cup and a Charity Shield.

Charlton joined the Whites at the age of 15 in 1950 as part of the ground staff, before signing professional terms.

The defender, who also helped Leeds to promotion from the Second Division as runners-up in 1956, also scored 96 times for Leeds, making him the club’s ninth highest scorer.

Charlton, who made 35 appearances for his country, also played every match as England won the 1966 World Cup.

Following his playing career, Charlton went into management, with spells in charge of Middlesbrough, Sheffield Wednesday, Newcastle United and the Republic of Ireland.

Born in Ashington, Northumberland on May 8, 1935, Charlton's death comes just three months after the tragic losses of fellow former Whites legends Norman Hunter and Trevor Cherry, both of whom were his United team-mates.

A statement from the Charlton family said: "Jack died peacefully on Friday 10 July 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."