Tributes have poured in following the death of former Irish rugby player and multi-talented sportsman Paul McNaughton.
The 69-year-old passed away "peacefully in hospital" surrounded by his family on Sunday. As well having a hugely successful rugby career, the Greystones native represented Wicklow in inter-county football and played in two FAI Cup finals for Shelbourne.
Leinster Rugby confirmed the sad news in a statement on Monday morning, saying: "Our thoughts are with the family and friends of former Leinster and Irish Rugby player Paul McNaughton who has passed away suddenly. A legend out Dr Hickey Park way and everywhere in between. A former Wicklow GAA and Shelbourne star as well."
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Brian O'Driscoll also expressed his sadness at the news on social media. He wrote: "Very sad to hear of the passing of Paul McNaughton. Uniquely he played at a high level in GAA, soccer & rugby.
"Was a quality team manager for Irish Rugby too during some great days always with well thought out advice. Incredibly low key person but so cleverly effective. RIP"
Éire Óg Greystones GAA Club described Mr McNaughton's sporting career as "remarkable". They said: "It's with great sadness that we've learnt of the death of Paul McNaughton.
"Paul had a remarkable sporting career. He played rugby for Greystones and Wanderers winning 15 caps for Ireland and played soccer in the League of Ireland for Shelbourne and Bray Wanderers. He also played Gaelic football for both Bray Emmets and our club while also representing the Wicklow Senior football team. Paul continued his support of our club over the years.
"Our sympathies to his wife Jean, his three sons and all at Greystones RFC where he was a past president. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam.”
Irish flanker Stephen Ferris, a member of the '09 team, said that Mr McNaughton was a "absolute gentleman". He said in a Tweet: "So sad to hear the news that Paul McNaughton has passed away.
"An absolute gentleman who will be missed by all who knew and worked with him. Thanks for some great memories."
His funeral service will take place at 10am on Thursday, 10th November, at the Holy Rosary Church in Greystones, followed by burial in Redford Cemetery.
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