Norman Hunter, the defender who won the World Cup with England and was instrumental in Leeds becoming champions of England twice during a 14-year spell at the club, has died from Covid-19 at the age of 76.
Issuing a statement confirming Hunter’s death on Friday morning, the club said his passing would leave a “huge hole” at Elland Road, where the former England regular had a lounge named after him and was a familiar presence, attending the Championship clash with Huddersfield last month.
Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Norman Hunter at the age of 76
— Leeds United (@LUFC) April 17, 2020
Hunter was declared “severely ill” when he was admitted to hospital last week after being diagnosed with Covid-19, but had been described as “fighting incredibly hard” against the virus.
He made the first of 762 appearances in a long and glorious career with the Whites in 1962, helping the legendary Don Revie to oversee a victory that would be one of many for Hunter, who earned the nickname ‘Bites yer Legs’.
The Durham-born stalwart was part of Leeds’ rise from the Second Division to league champions, winning five other trophies – including the 1972 FA Cup – before departing in 1976.
His crowning international glory came at Wembley in 1966, when he was part of an immortalized England side that won the World Cup on home soil.
Hunter won 28 caps for his country and was the first winner of the PFA Players’ Player of the Year in 1974. He later played for Bristol City and Barnsley, who he managed for four years before also leading Barnsley and Rotherham.
“His legacy will never be forgotten,” said the announcement, describing the “Leeds family” as “devastated”. “Our thoughts are with Norman’s family and friends at this very difficult time.”
Source: RT