Manchester United and Scotland great Denis Law has died at the age of 84.
Law won two league titles with United and was a member of their European Cup-winning side under Sir Matt Busby in 1968 when they became the first English club to lift the trophy.
A statement from Law’s family read: “It is with a heavy heart that we tell you our father Denis Law has sadly passed away. He fought a tough battle but finally he is now at peace.
“We would like to thank everyone who contributed to his wellbeing and care, past and much more recently. We know how much people supported and loved him and that love was always appreciated and made the difference. Thank you.”
A Manchester United statement added: “Everyone at Manchester United is mourning the loss of Denis Law, the King of the Stretford End, who has passed away, aged 84.
“With 237 goals in 404 appearances, he will always be celebrated as one of the club’s greatest and most beloved players. The ultimate goal-scorer, his flair, spirit and love for the game made him the hero of a generation.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Denis’ family and many friends. His memory will live on forever more.”
Denis Law played for both Manchester clubs in the 1960s and 70s
Law, who is the only man to have two statues dedicated to him at Old Trafford, began his career at Huddersfield and had two spells at Manchester City as well as a stint in Serie A with Torino.
But it was at Manchester United where Law made his name, landing the European Footballer of the Year award in 1964, before collecting his first league winner’s medal in 1965 and finishing the season as the First Division’s top goalscorer.
Law, who is – the only Scotsman to win European Footballer of the Year – was also part of the United side that won the European Cup in 1968.
He scored a total of 237 goals in 404 appearances during an 11-year spell at Old Trafford until 1973, which places him third behind Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton on United’s all-time list.
Known as ‘The King’, Law defied his small physique to terrorise defenders with his fearless approach and electric pace during an 18-year playing career.
Capped 55 times by Scotland – he made his senior debut aged 18 in 1958 – Law remains his country’s joint all-time leading scorer with 30 goals alongside Kenny Dalglish.
Law’s transfers from Huddersfield to Manchester City in 1960 and later moves to Italian club Torino (1961) and to Manchester United in 1962 were all British records at the time.
