FORMER CAPTAIN PASSES AWAY

Former Manchester United and Republic of Ireland captain Noel Cantwell has died aged 73.

He had been suffering from ill health for several years.

The Cork-born full-back, who guided United to the FA Cup in 1963, was a double international representing his country at both football and cricket.

He cost United £29,500 when he joined from West Ham in November 1960.

Cantwell, signed by legendary United boss Sir Matt Busby in the aftermath of the Munich air disaster, made 144 appearances for United and scored eight goals. He was capped 36 times by his country, scoring 14 goals and narrowly missing out on leading the Republic to the 1966 World Cup finals in England.

He had joined West Ham as an 18-year-old in 1952 and made 248 appearances, scoring 11 goals, for them - helping the Hammers win the Second Division title in 1958.

Cantwell stayed at Old Trafford for seven years, playing alongside the likes of Sir Bobby Charlton and George Best, but played only four games as they won the 1967 League championship in his final season.

After ending his playing career, he moved into management with Coventry - resigning his post as chairman of the Professional Footballers' Association to take over at Highfield Road - and Peterborough before coaching in North America.

He then became a publican and settled in Peterborough.

Last November he told RTE Radio: "In 1963 we won the Cup and I happened to be captain. It was a great day.

"Leicester were favourites to win it. But we always played in flashes and we always thought that Wembley would suit us.

"I think I had only taken over the captaincy early in that season. The turmoil at the club was reflected in how many times the captain changed. But that was a very special day at Wembley."

Cantwell was highly regarded at Old Trafford and was at one stage tipped to take over from Busby as manager.

"I remember Matt telling me he wanted me to be coach at Old Trafford. I was very excited. But it never materialised."

Sir Alex Ferguson also had some kind words to say about him.

"Noel Cantwell was a former captain of the club and a great servant to Manchester United.

"I met him a few times and he was quite a character, very approachable and very friendly. It is very sad news and everyone at United will remember him as a fantastic full-back.

"He captained the team in '63 (FA Cup winners) and gave fans so many wonderful memories in the '60s. Our thoughts go out to his family and friends."

As a mark of respect, Manchester United will observe a moment’s silence on Saturday, prior to the Barclays Premiership fixture against Manchester City.