Jack Charlton dies at 85

Jack Charlton, a World Cup winner with England who became the darling of Ireland after leading their national team to unprecedented success as manager, has died aged 85.

A family statement said that the former Leeds United defender, who helped England beat West Germany to become world champions in 1966, died peacefully on Friday at his home following a long-term illness.

Charlton, the elder brother of Manchester United great Bobby, was a tough tackling centre back who graduated from the Leeds academy and spent his entire playing career at the club. He helped them win the second division in 1963-64 and then the top-flight title in 1968-69.

He helped Alf Ramsey's side lift the World Cup on home soil in 1966 , playing every match.

He led Ireland to their first major soccer finals at the 1988 European Championship and guided them to the World Cup quarterfinals in 1990.