Moving tributes paid to Burnley FC goalscoring legend Willie Irvine, who dies aged 82
Tributes have been paid to Burnley FC goalscoring legend Willie Irvine, who has sadly died at the age of 82.
The Northern Irishman plundered 97 goals in 148 games for the Clarets between 1960 and 1968.
Despite leaving to join Lancashire neighbours Preston North End, Irvine continued to live in the area such was his love for Burnley, where he remained for the rest of his life.
Born in Eden, Northern Ireland, Irvine travelled to England at the tender age of 16 to have a trial with the Clarets. He was subsequently offered a professional deal, initially working his way up through the club’s youth and reserves teams before making his senior debut at the end of the 1962/63 season.
Over the coming years, the forward became a regular feature in the Burnley side, often partnering Andy Lochhead in attack. During the 1965/66 season, he finished the campaign as the First Division’s highest goalscorer.
Such was Irvine’s influence at Turf Moor, tributes have unsurprisingly flooded in for one of the club’s greatest goalscorers.
Burnley Football Club are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Burnley and Northern Ireland International, Willie Irvine,” the Clarets said in a statement.
"Willie Irvine will always hold a special place here at Turf Moor. A centre-forward who not only mesmerised defences but also enthralled the fans who came to witness one of the greatest goalscorers the club has ever had.
“Our thoughts are with his wife Rita and their sons Darren, Stephen, Jonathon and all the family.”
Tributes have also flooded in from supporters, while fan groups have also published statements of their own.
“We would like to send our condolences to the friends and family of Burnley legend, Willie Irvine,” the Clarets Trust said.
“The Northern Irishman was one of the finest goalscorers Turf Moor has seen, and delivered matchday tours later on in life. He will always be remembered fondly.”
The Burnley FC Independent Supporters Association added: “We are devastated to hear of the passing of Burnley legend, Willie Irvine. A remarkable goalscorer who was truly adored in our town.
“Our thoughts are with his wife, Rita; his sons, Darren, Stephen and Jonathan and all of their families. Rest in Peace, Willie.”
After breaking his leg in 1967, Irvine would join Preston a year later where he would score 27 times in 81 appearances.
A loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion was later turned permanent, before representing Halifax Town and Great Harwood – before retiring at the age of 29.
He later worked at an aerospace factory and also gave guided tours of Turf Moor on matchdays.
PNE said in a statement: “We are saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Willie Irvine, who made 81 appearances for North End between 1968 and 1971.
“Our thoughts are with Willie's friends and family at this difficult time.”
Irvine, who passes away after battling a long illness, won 23 caps for his country between 1963 and 1972, scoring eight goals.