Leeds United legend and World Cup winner Norman Hunter has died at the age of 76 after contracting coronavirus.
Hunter was taken to hospital last week having tested positive for COVID-19 and reports last night revealed that the former England international was "severely unwell".
Leeds have now revealed in a statement that the former centre-back sadly lost his battle with the disease on Friday morning, becoming one of almost 14,000 people to have passed away in the UK as a result of the virus.
"Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of club icon Norman Hunter at the age of 76," read the club statement.
"He leaves a huge hole in the Leeds United family, his legacy will never be forgotten and our thoughts are with Norman's family and friends at this very difficult time."
Rest in peace Norman pic.twitter.com/Fq38EJK6Pn
— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 17, 2020
Hunter made 726 appearances for Leeds between 1962 and 1977, helping the club to two top-flight titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups.
The defender was the first ever winner of the PFA Players' Player of the Year award in 1974 and was part of England's World Cup-winning squad in 1966, although he did not feature during the tournament.
Barney Corkhill
