Terry Cooper, the Leeds United legend responsible for scoring the winning goal in the 1968 League Cup final against Arsenal, has sadly passed away aged 77.
An integral member of the great Don Revie side, Terry Cooper played a total of 351 times for Leeds, scoring 11 times between 1964 and 1975 – one of the biggest moments in the club’s history.
Not only did he score that transformational goal for the club, as the years went by he also became revered as one of the inventors of the modern wing-back role.
A statement on the official Leeds United website read:
“Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of Terry Cooper at the age of 77.
“A club legend, Cooper amassed 351 appearances for the Whites, scoring 11 goals, during the Leeds’ most successful era to date.
“The thoughts of everyone at Leeds United are with Terry’s family and friends at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Terry.”
He also won 20 England caps, making his debut in 1970 and being picked as the team’s first=choice left back that same year.
After leaving Leeds, he then went on to manage a raft of other teams including Bristol Rovers, Bristol City, Exeter twice, and Birmingham.
Tributes have poured in from the clubs he was associated with, as well as many others who took the time to share their sadness at his passing and celebrate his great contribution to football.
Exeter tweeted: “Exeter City is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Terry Cooper at the age of 77. Terry managed the Grecians to the Fourth Division championship in 1990. Our thoughts are with Terry’s friends and family.”
Whilst Birmingham said: “We are devastated to hear of the passing of our former Manager, Terry Cooper. Everyone’s thoughts at #BCFC are with Terry’s family and friends”
Football writer Henry Winter tweeted: “Such sad news. Another #lufc legend gone. Thoughts with Terry Cooper’s family and friends. RIP.”
Former footballer Keith Waugh said “Just heard of the passing of the best manager I worked for. A brilliant player in his day, a superb man manager & a top bloke. You gave me some of the best days of my career and memories to last a lifetime. Thank you and RIP Terry Cooper.”
Soccer Saturday presenter Jeff Stelling said: “Terry Cooper, a wonderful buccaneering full back who was part of my childhood has gone. Incredibly sad.”
And fan Mert Brown said: “RIP Terry Cooper. He got City back on track, boxed clever in the transfer market (Alan Walsh 18k) brought exciting football back to the Gate and, as a young kid at that point, I will never forget the Wembley trips in the mid 80’s”
An absolute icon and one of football’s greats, Terry Cooper did so much for football and his loss will be felt for some time.
Feature image – Leeds United.
