Jimmy McIlroy: Burnley and Northern Ireland legend dies, aged 86
Widely regarded as Burnley's greatest ever player, McIlroy helped the Clarets win the English First Division in 1959/60
Former Burnley and Northern Ireland star Jimmy McIlroy has died, aged 86.
In a statement released by the Premier League club, they confirmed the passing of McIlroy, who is widely regarded as the greatest player in Burnley's history.
A technically gifted attacking midfielder, McIlroy made almost 500 appearances for the Clarets in 13 seasons with the Turf Moor club, helping them win the First Division in 1959/60, and to the FA Cup final two years later.
The 'Jimmy McIlroy Stand' at Turf Moor is named in his honour.
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Born in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, McIlroy represented his nation on 55 occasions, including at the 1958 World Cup.
He played for Stoke and Oldham after leaving Burnley in 1962, also going on to manager the latter after hanging up his boots five years later.
The club statement read: "Burnley Football Club is greatly saddened to hear of the death of Jimmy McIlroy - widely regarded as the club's finest ever player.
"The Clarets have lost a true club great and a part of their history, and the club's thoughts are with his family and friends on this sad day."