Tributes have poured in for St Mirren Hall of Famer Frank McGarvey following his sad passing at the age of 66.
The prolific former St Mirren striker played his way into the club's history books after helping the Paisley side seal the First Division title in 1977.
He also played a key role in club's historic 1987 Scottish Cup win, scoring the winner in their crucial semi-final win against Hearts to reach Hampden where they went on to beat Dundee United.
St Mirren club legend and McGarvey's former team-mate Tony Fitzpatrick posted on social media: "Devastating news this morning! After a long tough battle my very good friend Frank McGarvey has passed away.
"He will be a great loss to us. My thoughts and prayers are with his beautiful family. May he rest in peace. God bless."
Current St Mirren coach Jamie Langfield added: "Very sad news on the passing of St Mirren legend and one of my heroes back in the day Frank McGarvey. Thoughts and prayers with his family and friends at this difficult time."
A St Mirren club statement issued yesterday read: “St Mirren Football Club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Frank McGarvey at the age of 66.
“Frank arrived at Love Street in December 1974 and became a regular during 1975-76. The striker’s first competitive goal came in a League Cup win over East Fife on August 9. He went on to score 11 times from 40 appearances.
“1976-77 was the season that Fergie’s Furies came of age and none more so than Frank. He scored 17 league goals as Saints marched to the old First Division title and promotion to the Premier League.
“Frank was the star as the title was clinched at Dens Park on April 19, claiming his first senior hat-trick in a 4-0 rout of Dundee...his good form continued in the top-flight.”
McGarvey would join Liverpool then Celtic before re-signing for Saints in June 1985.
“He ended the season with 12 goals, including a double in our UEFA Cup victory over Slavia Prague,” the club statement continued.
In April 1988, manager Alex Smith resigned with Tony Fitzpatrick taking over and naming McGarvey his No 2.
The statement added: “In May 2005, McGarvey was inducted into the St Mirren Hall of Fame having made 341 appearances, scoring 102 goals across his two spells at the club.
“Frank will forever be remembered at St Mirren and our deepest condolences are with Frank’s loved ones at this very sad time.
“Rest in peace, Frank.”
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