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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Anna McAree

Tributes pour in for late Derry City legend Jim Crossan

Tributes have flooded in across social media after the announcement of the passing of Derry City FC legend Jim Crossan.

Jim was remembered for his lifelong dedication to his beloved Candystripes, both on and off the pitch.

He was remembered for his role in playing for Derry City as they became the first Irish club to progress through a round in European football, as well as leading the club into the League of Ireland in 1985.

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Derry City Football Club said: "Derry City FC is deeply saddened to learn of the death overnight of former player and manager Jim Crossan. 'Jimbo' will be forever remembered for a lifetime of service to football in Derry and for leading the club into the League of Ireland in 1985.

"He is of course synonymous with THAT goal against FK Lynn in 1965 as City became the first Irish club to progress through a round in European football.

"Our thoughts are with the entire family circle at this difficult time. May his gentle soul Rest In Peace."

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Sandra Duffy, said: "I was deeply saddened to hear today of the death of the much respected football player and manager Jim Crossan, known fondly by everyone locally as Jimbo.

"He contributed so much to the local sporting community over the years, and achieved much success through his long association with Derry City FC. My thoughts and prayers are with his family, friends and the wider sporting circle today."

He was remembered for his role in playing for Derry City as they became the first Irish club to progress through a round in European football (Don Boscos Football Club / Facebook)

SDLP MLA Mark H Durkan said: "Saddened at the death of Derry City legend and champion of local soccer, Jimbo Crossan. Not only did he play for and manage the club with distinction, he also scored the best goal I've never seen.

"Thinking of Jimbo's family and footballing fraternity at this sad time. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam."

Derry football club, Don Boscos, said: "It’s with a sad heart that I have to post the death of another giant of the game in Derry Jimbo Crossan.

"Jimbo lived and breathed football and worked tirelessly for all in the game he loved, Derry City fc legend that managed and played for the club close to his heart. I personally think he never got the recognition for the amount of work he did for his beloved Derry.

"A friend to all and always was willing to chat to anyone. Condolences to Nora and his family. Rest easy dear friend."

Tristar FC said: "Everyone at Tristar FC would like to express their extreme sadness at the passing of former Derry City player, manager and D&D stalwart Jim Crossan

Jimbo was a local legend who gave a lifetime to football in this District at every level. We pass on our deepest sympathies to Jimbos family and friends at this very sad time."

Funeral arrangements can be found here.

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