Former Arsenal and Tottenham footballer Willie Young has passed away at the age of 73.
During his career, Young, a centre back, spent two years with Spurs and four with Arsenal. His career started at Scottish side Aberdeen in 1969, before north London in 1975 with Tottenham.
After playing 59 times for Spurs, he did what would now be considered the unthinkable and made the swap to the red area of the city, joining Arsenal, where he would play 236 times.
The Gunners announced the news on social media, writing: ‘We are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Willie Young. Making 236 appearances and winning the FA Cup in 1979, the Scottish defender was a cult hero at Highbury.
‘Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Willie.’
Young, who was also a Soctland Under-23 international, also enjoyed time with Nottingham Forest, Norwich and Brighton before his retirement in 1984.
He was married to a woman named Lynda, and the duo had three children together.
Tributes flew in on social media, particularly from Arsenal fans. One wrote on X: ‘RIP. My Dad used to tell me about Willie Young all the time growing up. Sad news.’
Another added: ‘A true warrior on the pitch, and forever part of Arsenal’s story.’
A third wrote: ‘So sad, proper cult hero, RIP Willie.’
Arsenal statement also read: ‘Willie was as strong a character off the pitch as he was on it – and he needed to be to make the move across the capital, with the Highbury faithful having significant reason for scepticism: “I was sent off against them after scoring my only First Division goal for Spurs this season. That’s a double insult to Arsenal,” said Willie prior to making his debut for us on March 5, 1977 against Ipswich Town.
‘“But I hope the fans will forgive me now that I’ve come over, I know the players have”.’
On joining Arsenal, who he would depart for £175,000, Young said: ‘Terry [Neill] has bought me to do a specific job for him, that’s to stay in the middle and stop the goals going in.’
