It’s always a sad day in football when a legend passes away, and that’s exactly the case with former Tottenham Hotspur left back Ron Henry, who died “in hospice” today.
Henry became a part of Tottenham in 1952, and in 1955, he debuted as a center back before switching to his longtime position, left back.
Capped once on England’s international team, he was a important piece to Bill Nicholson’s squad from 1961, “The Double” team that won the Football League and FA Cup in the same season. Spurs snagged the FA Cup the next year and also won the European Cup Winners Cup in 1963.The Club was saddened to hear of the passing of Double winning left-back and former coach Ron Henry this afternoon at the age of 80.
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) December 27, 2014
Overall, Henry made 287 appearances for the organization during his career, and he was consistently a starter.
After his career finished, he kept close ties to Tottenham, serving as a U-18 assistant coach.
Ronnie Henry, his grandson, performed in Tottenham’s youth system from 2000-2002 before having stints with multiple clubs, his longest tenure being with current British League Two side Stevenage.
Notably, writer Norman Giller and Hull City reserve team manager had the following to say about the sorrowful occasion.Farewell #RonHenry, one of Tottenham’s greatest defenders and a loyal servant for more than 50 years. He passed on on Christmas Day, aged 80
— Uncle Norman Giller (@NormanGiller) December 27, 2014Sad to hear Spurs Legend Ron Henry had passed away. He helped out with youth team at Spurs when I was there. He was a top bloke #RonHenry
— Stephen Clemence (@StevieClem25) December 27, 2014