Charlie Hurley dead at 87: Sunderland legend nicknamed ‘The King’ passes away as tributes flood in

SUNDERLAND legend Charlie Hurley has died aged 87.

Dubbed “The King”, the Irishman has been hailed as one of the Black Cats’ greatest ever players.

GettyCharlie Hurley played more than 400 times for Sunderland[/caption]

Born in Cork, Ireland in 1936 – Hurley moved to England with his family at seven months old.

He joined Millwall aged 16, and went on to play over 100 times for the Lions before joining Sunderland in 1957.

It was in Wearside that the strapping centre-half would make his name.

Hurley played for Sunderland for 12 years, playing over 400 times for the Black Cats and leaving his mark both on and off the pitch.

Paying tribute to Hurley, Sunderland wrote in a lengthy statement: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Hurley, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of Sunderland AFC.

“Named the Club’s Player of the Century in 1979, The King was a giant in the story of SAFC and his legacy on Wearside will forever endure.

“A man mountain on the pitch and a gentleman off it, Charlie’s aura and charisma ensured that he was adored and idolised by supporters and team-mates alike.”

Hurley went on to represent the country of his birth, earning 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

During Sunderland’s promotion-winning season in 1963-64, Hurley came second to Bobby Moore for FWA Footballer of the Year.

Following 402 appearances in 12 years, Hurley left Wearside to join Bolton in 1969.

He spent the final two years of his playing career with the Trotters before hanging up his boots in 1971.

Hurley’s first club Millwall also paid tribute to their former defender.

They wrote: “Millwall Football Club is saddened to hear of the passing of former player Charlie Hurley.

“To a generation of Millwall supporters, Charlie was the greatest player to don a Millwall shirt.”

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