Everton have announced that former manager Gordon Lee has passed away at the age of 87.
He took charge of the Blues in 1977, succeeding Billy Bingham, and led his side out for the League Cup final that year - playing out two replays before being beaten by Aston Villa.
The Cannock-born manager led Everton to two FA Cup semi finals and as many top-four finishes in the First Division during his time in charge of the club.
He was replaced as manager by Howard Kendall in 1981.
Lee signed players like George Wood, Dave Thomas, Brian Kidd, Colin Todd, John Bailey, Asa Hartford, John Gidman, Graeme Sharp and Alan Irvine for Everton and also gave debuts to Kevin Ratcliffe, Kevin Richardson and Steve McMahon.
He also managed Port Vale, Blackburn Rovers, Newcastle United, Preston North End, KR Reykjavik and had a caretaker spell at Leicester City.
Everton announced on Tuesday that their former boss had passed away peacefully in his sleep.
His son Gary said: “Everton have been wonderful to him and our family – please pass on our thanks for being a huge part of his journey.”
Graeme Sharp, who Gordon brought to Everton from Dumbarton in 1980, said: “I will always be grateful to Gordon Lee for bringing me to Everton Football Club. He showed faith in me and gave me my debut as a young footballer. Gordon was a massive part of my development and I always enjoyed meeting up with him later in life. I am deeply saddened by his loss and extend my sympathy to his family.”
And Kevin Ratcliffe, given his Everton bow by Gordon at Manchester United in March 1980, added: “Gordon loved to give young players an opportunity and I will forever be grateful that he gave me mine at Everton.
"He was ahead of his time with some of his coaching methods and with a bit more luck would have brought honours to the Club. He left his mark on Everton and his passing is a very sad one.”
