Norman Hunter epitomised the word legend and the lives of the Leeds United family will never quite be the same as we mourn his passing.

As a footballer there are very few who have a career which has been as decorated as Norman’s. He made a huge 726 appearances, helping the club rise from the Second Division, going on to win two First Division Championships, two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups, the FA Cup, League Cup and Charity Shield.  Let’s not forget, he was a European Cup winner in 1975 despite what the record books may state and there is no question that the name Norman Hunter will live on at our club forever.  To this day there is a brotherhood amongst the Revie team and there is no question that Norman was at the heart of their success. Whilst he was famed for his aggressive style of play, all of that team will tell you there was far more to his game than his “Bites Yer Legs” moniker suggests.  Anyone that played with him will tell you he was an incredible footballer and an even better team-mate.

Of course many will remember Norman for being a part of England’s 1966 World Cup winning squad.  He is one of only 22 English professional footballers to own a World Cup winning medal after being presented with his at Downing Street in 2009. However, to fans of Leeds United, it is impossible to say what he will be remembered for the most.  One of our most successful players, one of our most iconic figures and someone who worked for the club until the day he sadly passed away.  Norman was adored by everyone he came into contact with at Leeds United throughout the years and it is heartbreaking to think the next time we meet again at Elland Road for a game, after we have defeated the vile illness which has taken Norman from us, that he won’t be on stage in the Suite named after him, sharing his many stories with the room. When Norman took to the stage you could hear a pin drop, supporters of all ages have listened to every word he has said for over a decade in his role as an ambassador at the club.

He leaves behind him a heartbroken family and our thoughts and prayers today are with his daughter Claire, son Michael, his three grandchildren and of course his wife Sue who has been his rock throughout the years, especially recently when he has experienced some health issues. He also leaves behind a devastated family at the club - from his former team mates such as Eddie Gray, Peter Lorimer and Paul Reaney, to our staff in Stuart Dodsley and Charlotte Taylor who worked with him every week in the West Stand and adored him.

Rest assured, once it is safe to do so, we will find a suitable way for fans to commemorate Norman and celebrate his life.

Leeds United will never forget Norman Hunter, he will always be in our hearts.