Leighton James dead aged 71: Tributes pour in as Wales and Burnley legend passes away
WALES legend Leighton James has died aged 71.
The Welsh winger racked up over 600 games in the Football League and 54 caps for his country.
GettyLeighton James, left, has died at the age of 71[/caption]
Leighton James played 399 times for Burnley across three spellsGetty
James also represented Swansea, Sunderland, Bury and Newport County in a near-20-year career.
Tributes have poured in Welshman, with Burnley chairman Alan Pace said: “We are sorry to hear the news of Leighton’s passing.
“He left an indelible mark on this football club and stories of his playing skills still echo around Turf Moor.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
Taking to X, Burnley wrote: “We are saddened to learn that club legend Leighton James has passed away at the age of 71. Our thoughts are with his family at this sad time.”
Swansea City posted: “Swansea City is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Leighton James at the age of 71. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Leighton’s friends and family at this sad time. Once a Jack, always a Jack.”
In a statement, the Welsh side wrote that he was “widely-regarded as one of the Swans’ finest players”.
Fans were quick to pay tribute to James with one calling him: “One of the best players to put on a Wales shirt.”
Another said: “Welsh football has lost a massive personality. A brilliant player, entertaining pundit and bonafide legend.”
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