Norman Hunter, former Leeds and England defender, dies aged 76 | Football

The former Leeds and England defender Norman Hunter has died at the age of 76 after contracting coronavirus.

Hunter, who made 540 appearances for Leeds and won 28 caps, was being treated in hospital having tested positive for Covid-19. Leeds said on Friday morning that they were devastated to learn of the death of the club legend and added: “Norman was taken to hospital last week after being diagnosed with Covid-19 and despite continuing to battle and the best efforts of NHS staff, he sadly lost his fight earlier this morning.

“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.”

Hunter was an uncompromising centre-back who became a Leeds legend after helping them win two First Division titles, the FA Cup, League Cup and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups during a 14-year spell at the club that ended in 1976.

He was also part of the England squad who won the World Cup in 1966, although he did not feature during the triumph having failed to break up the defensive partnership of Jack Charlton and Bobby Moore.

After leaving Elland Road, Hunter went on to play for Bristol City and Barnsley, and also managed the latter, as well as Rotherham, following his retirement as a player.