England 1966 great, Irish football icon Jack Charlton dies

Jack Charlton, a member of the England 1966 World Cup winning side and who went on to become a cult hero in Ireland, has died aged 85, his family announced on Saturday.

Charlton — elder brother of his fellow World Cup winning team-mate Bobby — was an integral part of the great Don Revie managed Leeds United side that won the 1969 League title and the 1972 FA Cup.

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Charlton also enjoyed a fairytale spell as manager of the Republic of Ireland guiding them to several major finals -- advancing to the 1990 World Cup quarter-finals.

Such was his achievement with Ireland that he was awarded the Republic's most distinguished award, honorary Irish citizenship in 1996.

England's Jack Charlton (right) holds the Jules Rimet trophy aloft as he parades it around Wembley. AP

"Jack died peacefully on Friday, July 10 at the age of 85. He was at home in Northumberland, with his family by his side," read a family statement.

"As well as a friend to many, he was a much-adored husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

"We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life.

"He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people.

"His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories."

Leeds issued their own trbute to 'Big Jack' whose uncompromising style as a defender epitomised the rugged side to the Revie era.