Former Scotland defender Gordon McQueen dies aged 70

Former Scotland defender Gordon McQueen has died at the age of 70.

McQueen, whose 16-year playing career during the 1970s and 80s included spells at St Mirren, Leeds and Manchester United, was diagnosed with vascular dementia in early 2021.

A statement issued on behalf of the McQueen family said: “It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of our beloved husband, father and grandfather.

“We hope that as well as creating many great football memories for club and his country, he will be remembered for the love, laughter and bravery that characterised his career and his family life – not least during his recent battles with ill health.

“Our house was always a buzz of friends, family and football and this constant support sustained him as he fought bravely against the cruel impact of dementia.

“The disease may have taken him too soon and while we struggle to comprehend life without him, we celebrate a man who lived life to the full: the ultimate entertainer, the life and soul of every occasion, the heart and soul of every dressing room, the most fun dad, husband and grandfather we could ever have wished for.

“The family would like to express our huge thanks to the wonderful staff at Herriot Hospice Homecare for their outstanding care; the utterly incredible Marie Curie team who were there with us all until the end; and Head for Change for the emotional support and respite care.

“Finally, to our wonderful friends and family who are a constant source of support we send our utmost love and gratitude.

“You will remain in our hearts always, Yvonne, Hayley, Anna, Eddie, Rudi, Etta and Ayla.”

SNS Group

McQueen, 6ft 3in, was among the outstanding central defenders of his era, winning 30 caps for Scotland between 1974 and 1981.

He came to prominence in England following his move to Leeds from St Mirren in 1972, helping the Yorkshire club to league title success in 1973-74 and playing a key role in their run to the European Cup final in 1975.

McQueen’s daughter, Hayley, told of her heartbreak earlier this year at seeing her father living with dementia.

Speaking to Good Morning Britain, she revealed that her father was “bedridden” by the “cruel” condition but still recognised family and friends.

She said: “He knows who we all are, which is weird because I still see dementia with not a clue what’s going on or who anybody is, so I quite like that fact from a selfish point of view.

“But part of me thinks if he didn’t know who we were, it might not be so hard to think of the day when he has to go into a home.

“It’s like he’s locked in himself.”