Arsenal and Northern Ireland legend Terry Neill has died aged 80

July 29 - Former Arsenal and Northern Ireland captain and manager Terry Neill has died aged 80.

Neill had remarkable success at a young age. At 20, he was Arsenal's youngest captain - a record that still stands - having made his first-team debut aged 18. A fierce defender on the pitch, he was a successful coach.

He retired from playing at the age of 28 and at 34 he was back at Arsenal as a manager.

Neill played over 270 games for the club between 1957 and 1970. As a manager, he led Arsenal to three consecutive FA Cup finals.

He won 59 international caps, including a stint as player-manager of Northern Ireland.

He once famously remarked when asked what the first name was on his squad sheet when he was player-manager of Northern Ireland: "Me! Then George Best and Pat Jennings."

Paying tribute to his former team-mate and manager, Jennings, and Arsenal goalkeeping legend, said: "He was a great man and had a huge influence on my career since joining the Northern Ireland team in 1964.

"Terry brought me to Arsenal where he gave me two four-year contracts, and he was also my manager at Spurs.

"We have had many memorable moments together, including four Cup finals; two FA Cups and a crucial European match. I am indebted to Terry for the help and support he gave me during my career."

In a statement, Arsenal highlighted Neill's "combination of tenacity, vision and natural leadership".

"After impressing at Hull City, Terry was appointed manager of Tottenham Hotspur in September 1974 and in June 1976 he made the short trip back to Highbury to take over the managerial post vacated by Bertie Mee."

"He pulled off a masterstroke by bringing in former team-mate and supreme tactician Don Howe to work alongside him and the Gunners have become one of the most successful cup teams in the country.

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"Although he no longer worked in football management, Terry remained a regular presence at Highbury and then the Emirates Stadium, including as a popular TV pundit and columnist in numerous publications.

"His fantastic contribution - and indeed his character - will always be appreciated by everyone associated with the club. Our hearts go out to Terry's family and close friends at this difficult time."

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