Man Utd and Leeds United ‘deeply saddened’ at passing of Gordon McQueen as Old Trafford flags fly at half-mast

Flags at Old Trafford are flying at half mast today as Manchester United mourns the loss of football legend Gordon McQueen.

A statement issued from United today said the club was 'deeply saddened' to announce that the former defender had passed away at the age of 70.

The club added: "Gordon, who was a huge fans' favourite during his time with the club between 1978 and 1985, has died at the age of 70, after being diagnosed with dementia."

McQueen joined Manchester United from Leeds United in 1978 and was part of the 1983 FA Cup-winning team that defeat Brighton & Hove Albion at a Wembley Stadium replay.

The star left Old Trafford in 1985 and went on to play for Hong Kong side Seiko. He went on to spend a brief spell as manager at Scottish side Airdrieonians between 1987 and 1988 before coaching at St Mirren and then at Middlesbrough alongside former Red Devils teammate Bryan Robson, as well as working as a Sky Sports pundit.

A statement issued by the McQueen family reads: "It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of Gordon McQueen, 70, who died at home in the early morning today, leaving behind his wife Yvonne, daughters Hayley and Anna, son Eddie and his beloved grandchildren Rudi, Etta and Ayla.

"We hope that, as well as creating many great football memories, he’ll be remembered most for his character. Our house was always full of friends, family and football, just as it was in his last few months as he fought so bravely in what became a very cruel battle against dementia.

"The disease may have taken him too soon but he definitely lived life to the full, the ultimate entertainer, the absolute heart and soul of every occasion, the most fun dad anyone could wish for.

"Huge thanks go to the wonderful staff at Herriot Hospice Homecare for their outstanding care, the utterly incredible Marie Curie team, who were there at the end with Gordon’s wife and daughters, and Head for Change, for the emotional support and respite care.

"Also to our wonderful friends and family, who rallied around at the worst of times, going above and beyond. For that, we are so very grateful."

Tributes to the football legend have come pouring in from admiring fans across the generations, as well as his former clubs.

Leeds United shared that they were 'saddened' to learn of McQueen's passing and heralded his time in Yorkshire, which included a league title, European Cup final and multiple Player of the Season awards.