'RIP Norman Hunter, a giant of a man': Tributes pour in for Leeds United legend

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Former Leeds United manager Peter Reid led the tributes as club legend Norman Hunter passed away on Friday, aged 76, after contracting coronavirus.

Hunter made 726 appearances over 14 years for the club, winning the First Division under Don Revie twice, plus both the FA Cup and League Cup. He was named the club's inaugural player of the year in 1974.

He was part of the World Cup-winning England squad of 1966, being awarded 28 Three Lions caps in total, and was the first recipient of the PFA Players' Player of the Year award in 1974.

Upon confirmation of the news from Leeds United, Peter Reid tweeted: "RIP Norman Hunter, a giant of a man."

Tributes from across the globe soon followed, with the Professional Footballers' Association, FA and FIFA all sending condolences.

Gary Lineker, referencing Hunter's nickname 'Bites Yer Legs', added: "[I] grew up watching that great Leeds United side of which he was a huge part.

"This awful virus was one crunching tackle too far but he’ll be biting yer legs somewhere."

Former Leeds players Noel David Whelan wrote: "Completely saddened by the news that our Norman Hunter has passed away, a beautiful player and a wonderfully kind man.

"The football world has lost a true legend and he will be missed by all the Leeds United community, we thank you for the memories everything you did for Leeds."

Peter Shilton added: "Very shocked and deeply saddened at the loss of Norman Hunter I played with him England and continued to meet him at various football events over the years it was always great to catch up with him, a wonderful man.

"Condolences to the family such a terrible loss."

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