Scotland legend Gordon McQueen has died at the age of 70 after a battle with dementia.
The former defender was capped 30 times for his country and won major honours for both Leeds United and Manchester United during an illustrious playing career after moving south of the border from St Mirren.
McQueen returned to Scotland when he had a brief spell in management with Airdrie before moving into the media where he worked in a celebrated career. It was announced last year that he had been diagnosed with vascular dementia which his family believed was due to years of heading the ball during a career.
An uncompromising defender during his career, McQueen helped the great Leeds United side win the English league title under Don Revie in 1974 and scored three times on their run to the European Cup final the following year, although he missed the Final defeat to Bayern Munich in Paris due to suspension. He also lifted the FA Cup with Manchester United in 1983.
A statement issued on behalf of the McQueen family said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather.
“We hope that as well as creating many great football memories for club and his country, he will be remembered for the love, laughter and bravery that characterised his career and his family life – not least during his recent battles with ill health.
“Our house was always a buzz of friends, family and football and this constant support sustained him as he fought bravely against the cruel impact of dementia.
“The disease may have taken him too soon and while we struggle to comprehend life without him, we celebrate a man who lived life to the full: the ultimate entertainer, the life and soul of every occasion, the heart and soul of every dressing room, the most fun dad, husband and grandfather we could ever have wished for.
“The family would like to express our huge thanks to the wonderful staff at Herriot Hospice Homecare for their outstanding care; the utterly incredible Marie Curie team who were there with us all until the end; and Head for Change for the emotional support and respite care.
“Finally, to our wonderful friends and family who are a constant source of support we send our utmost love and gratitude. You will remain in our hearts always, Yvonne, Hayley, Anna, Eddie, Rudi, Etta and Ayla.”
Born in Kilbirnie, he made his debut for Scotland against Belgium in 1974 and scored five times - including in the famous 2-1 win over England at Wembley in 1977. He was part of the World Cup squad in Argentina a year later but injured prevented him from playing.
His passing means Scottish football – and Britain as a whole – has lost another legendary figure.
