(COLOMBO, LANKAPUVATH) – ENGLAND and Leeds United legend Norman Hunter has died after testing positive for coronavirus.
The 76-year-old had been admitted to hospital earlier this week.
Hunter, who made 540 appearances for Leeds and earned 28 England caps, was part of the England World Cup squad which won the tournament on home soil in 1966.
In a statement, Leeds United said the club hero had passed away this morning.
A spokesperson said: “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 married wife Susan two years after his World Cup triumph and the couple went on to have two children, Michael and Claire.
The centre-back made over 500 appearances for the Whites including the hugely successful period under boss Don Revie.
