Former Manchester United centre-back Brian Greenhoff has died at his home in Rochdale at the age of 60.
Born in Barnsley, Greenhoff joined United’s youth team in 1968 and progressed to the first-team two years later.
Former teammate Lou Macari has expressed his shock at the sudden death of a ‘true servant’ for the Red Devils.
“We had no news that Brian had been ill,” Macari told BBC Radio Manchester.
“Brian loved playing for United, it was a dream come true for him. His only aim was to keep playing for United as long as he could.”
Known for his versatility – often playing in midfield – he made a total of 271 appearances for the Red Devils and scored 17 goals..
With defensive partner Martin Buchan, Greenhoff was a mainstay in Tommy Docherty’s Old Trafford side during the 70s.
His greatest achievement was as part of United’s FA Cup winning team in 1977, while he won a second division winners’ medal in 1975.
Greenhoff was joined at Old Trafford by his brother, Jimmy, in 1976, after the latter moved from Stoke City to pay for the club’s roof repairs.
He departed the club in 1979 in a £350,000 deal to Leeds United, but fell out of top-flight football in 1982 due to concerns over his weight.
The defender also picked up 18 England caps between 1976 and 1980.
His autobiography, Greenhoff!, which details his upbringing and playing career, was released last year.
A police spokesman has confirmed there are no suspicious circumstances surrounding his death.
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