Manchester United have announced the death of Jimmy Nicholson, who played for Huddersfield Town in the 1969-70 season that won the Second Division. He made 68 appearances during his three years at Old Trafford. United expressed their heartfelt condolences on social media, saying: “In memory of former player Jimmy Nicholson, who has passed away at the age of 82. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”
A full statement from the club read: “Manchester United are saddened to hear of the death of former wing-half Jimmy Nicholson. The former Northern Ireland international has passed away at the age of 82 and our deepest sympathies go out to his family and friends.”
“Born in Belfast, Nicholson joined the club as a trainee in 1958 and made his breakthrough as a teenager with the club in 1960/61, making his debut in the Division One league in the second game of the season away to Everton. He made 37 appearances and scored five goals that season for Matt Busby’s side as they continued to rebuild after the 1958 Munich Blitz.”
“Jimmy played 68 games for the Reds and found the back of the net once more, scoring a late winner against Bolton Wanderers in the FA Cup. Our thoughts are with Jimmy’s loved ones at this sad time.”
Nicholson is well-respected at Huddersfield, where he joined for a fee of £7,500 at the end of 1964. In 1969/70 he captained the Terriers to the Second Division title. The midfielder played in 310 games for the team in nine years, scoring 29 goals.
Huddersfield said: “Everyone at Huddersfield Town is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jimmy Nicholson.
“After signing for Manchester United, Jimmy represented the club from 1964 to 1973 and was part of the 1969/70 Second Division winning team. At this time, our collective thoughts are with Jimmy’s family and loved ones. Once a Terrier, always a Terrier.”
Nicholson also enjoyed an international career with Northern Ireland, winning 41 caps and scoring six goals. “The Football Association of Ireland is saddened to hear of the passing of former international player Jimmy Nicholson,” the Football Association of Ireland said in a statement.
“The Society sends its deepest condolences to Jimmy’s family at this sad time.”
