Former Republic of Ireland international Charlie Hurley has passed away at the age of 87.
Nicknamed "the King", the Cork-born centre half started his career with Milwall, and spent 12 years with Sunderland before finishing his playing career with Bolton Wanderers - he would later manage Reading.
He was named Sunderland's player of the century in 1979, and remains one of only 10 players to have made over 400 appearances for the club.
Hurley won 40 international caps with the Republic of Ireland, serving as captain on over 20 occasions, and served as player coach in his final three international games - he was inducted into the FAI's Hall of Fame in 2007.
The FAI paid tribute to Hurley on social media, saying that he is rightly regarded as one of the greatest ever Irish players.
Sunderland, Milwall, Bolton and Reading have also paid tribute.
The FAI is deeply saddened to learn of the death of Cork-born legend Charlie Hurley
Capped 40 times by his country, Charlie will always be remembered as "The King"
We are proud he played for Ireland and offer our sympathies to his family and friends
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a… pic.twitter.com/0or4aNG33b— FAIreland (@FAIreland) April 25, 2024
We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Hurley, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of Sunderland AFC.
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) April 25, 2024
The club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former manager Charlie Hurley, at the age of 87 earlier this week.
Hurley managed the club between 1972 & 1977, winning promotion in 1975 and brought the iconic Robin Friday to Elm Park.
A tribute in full, below ⬇️— Reading FC (@ReadingFC) April 25, 2024
#Millwall Football Club is saddened to hear of the passing of former player Charlie Hurley.
— Millwall FC (@MillwallFC) April 25, 2024
Sharing our thoughts with everyone at Sunderland and Charlie Hurley’s family. 🤍
A footballing giant who ended a magnificent playing career with Wanderers.#bwfc https://t.co/5IcTJWvbB6— Bolton Wanderers (@OfficialBWFC) April 25, 2024
