Former Scotland Defender Gordon McQueen Passes Away at 70
Gordon McQueen, former Scotland defender and Manchester United and Leeds United ace, has passed away at the age of 70. The ex-player was diagnosed with vascular dementia in February 2021 and his family released a statement saying he was taken ‘too soon’ after his battle with dementia.
McQueen’s Career
McQueen started his career in his home country with St Mirren before moving south of the border in 1972 to join Leeds. He was integral in Leeds’ title-winning side of 1974 and played a key role in the side’s run to the European Cup Final a year later. After leaving Leeds, McQueen went on to play for Manchester United, where he is best known for his time.
Family Statement
The family released a statement saying: “It is with the heaviest of hearts we announce the passing of Gordon McQueen, 70, who died at home in the early morning today, leaving behind his wife Yvonne, daughters Hayley and Anna, son Eddie and his beloved grandchildren Rudi, Etta and Ayla. We hope that, as well as creating many great football memories, he’ll be remembered most for his character. Our house was always full of friends, family and football, just as it was in his last few months as he fought so bravely in what became a very cruel battle against dementia. The disease may have taken him too soon but he definitely lived life to the full, the ultimate entertainer, the absolute heart and soul of every occasion, the most fun dad anyone could wish for. Huge thanks go to the wonderful staff at Herriot Hospice Homecare for their outstanding care, the utterly incredible Marie Curie team, who were there at the end with Gordon’s wife and daughters, and Head for Change, for the emotional support and respite care. Also to our wonderful friends and family, who rallied around at the worst of times, going above and beyond. For that, we are so very grateful.”
Hayley McQueen’s Statement
Gordon’s daughter Hayley McQueen works in sports broadcasting for the likes of Sky Sports. In a statement on her Instagram account, Hayley said she felt ‘numb’ at her father’s passing. She said: “Dad Beyond heartbroken to announce we have lost our wonderful dad, I thought when the day came I’d be prepared & feel a sense of relief that he is no longer trying to battle this awful disease but I just feel numb. I’m hoping we can now remember him for the man he was & not the man he became this last few years. We thought we were losing him when home palliative care came to look after him back in December, we were distraught but being the big strong man that he is, battled on for many months.”
Conclusion
Gordon McQueen was an integral part of both Leeds United’s and Manchester United’s teams during his career. He will be remembered fondly by his family, friends and fans alike for his character and his passion for football. His death is a great loss to the footballing world and he will be sorely missed.