Newcastle legend Willie McFaul dies as Premier League club pays emotional tribute

Newcastle club icon Willie McFaul has died at the age of 82, with the Premier League club issuing an emotional statement confirming the loss

Newcastle club icon Willie McFaul has died at the age of 82.

The goalkeeper played for the Magpies for nine years through the 1960s and 70s, before going on to manage the club in the late 80s.

The Premier League side have shared an emotional tribute to Willie. They wrote on Twitter: “We are deeply saddened by the news that our former player and manager Willie McFaul has passed away aged 82.

“Born in Coleraine, Willie joined us from Linfield and made 386 club appearances between 1966 and 1975.

“All of us at Newcastle United extend our sincere condolences to Willie’s loved ones.

“Our players will wear black armbands during tomorrow’s Premier League fixture with Nottingham Forest in his memory.”

Among McFaul’s almost 400 appearances for the north-east side was a victory in the 1969 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup.

And as manager, he oversaw the emergence of a young Paul Gascoigne.

He later went on to manage Coleraine, in Northern Ireland, and the Guam national team.

The official Newcastle United Supporters Trust also added a tribute, writing: “NUST are saddened to hear of the passing of Willie McFaul.

“Sending our condolences to his family and friends.”

And Newcastle Fans TV added: “Some very sad news, Willie McFaul has passed away.

“Willie was part of the Fairs Cup winning side.

“After retirement, he later coached and managed Newcastle United. We send our condolences to his loved ones and friends.”