United legend Tony Dunne passes away
Manchester United is saddened to learn that Tony Dunne, the left-back in our first European Cup-winning team, has passed away. He was 78.
The Irishman is eighth on the overall list of appearance-makers at the club, having played 535 times for the Reds.
He scored two goals, in matches against Newcastle United and West Brom, but made his name for his excellent work at the other end of the field in Sir Matt Busby's great side of the 1960s.
The Dublin-born defender joined the club in 1960 from Shelbourne in his homeland, making his debut later that year against Burnley.
It was the beginning of a wonderful spell at Old Trafford,and he started the FA Cup final win over Leicester City in 1963 to collect his first medal with the Reds. He would miss only six league games over the next four seasons and helped United to win the title in 1965 and 1967.
Of course, Dunne was also heavily involved in the 1968 European Cup success, the first by an English team, as he not only played in the final against Benfica but also featured in every round en route to Wembley.
In 1973, he was granted a free transfer from United in recognition of his fabulous service and joined Bolton Wanderers, a club where he later became assistant manager.
Dunne also won 33 caps for Republic of Ireland and his country's Player of the Year award in 1969, rare personal recognition for somebody who was very much a team player. He was clearly among the best full-backs in the club's history.
The thoughts of everyone at Manchester United and, no doubt, many thousands of supporters, are with Tony's family and friends at this sad time.
TWEETS FOR TONY
One of our greatest-ever full-backs. An integral part of the 1968 European Cup-winning side. A player who made 535 appearances in the red shirt of Manchester United.
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) June 8, 2020
Our heartfelt condolences go to the loved ones of Tony Dunne. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/M8xYNdqMcU
Shelbourne FC is saddened to send our condolences to the family and friends of former FAI Cup winning Shels player Tony Dunne after his passing.
— Shelbourne FC (@shelsfc) June 8, 2020
Tony had a glittering career winning a European Cup with @ManUtd and 33 caps for @FAIreland. RIP Tony. pic.twitter.com/SNkXzg59nO
📰 Rest in Peace: Tony Dunne [1941-2020]. 💙
— Bolton Wanderers (@OfficialBWFC) June 8, 2020
👉🏻 https://t.co/RsAz66Vcye#BWFC 🐘🏰