Willie Bell dead aged 85: Leeds United legend passes away after brief illness having played over 200 games for club

LEEDS legend Willie Bell has died at the age of 85.

After a brief illness, the former defender passed away at his home yesterday, surrounded by his family.

PAWillie Bell has died aged 85[/caption]

PABell scored 18 goals in 260 appearances for Leeds[/caption]

He played in the FA Cup final defeat to Liverpool in 1965Rex

He leaves behind his wife Pat, three children and seven grandchildren.

The Scot played 260 times for the Yorkshire side between 1960 and 1967.

During his time, he scored 18 goals for the club and helped them to promotion from the Second Division in 1964.

The following season the left-back was part of the Leeds side that finished second in the First Division.

That same season he helped the club reach the final of the FA Cup, only to suffer a 2-1 defeat to Liverpool.

He helped the club achieve the same feat the next season as well and became a fan favourite.

In 1966 he also earned two caps for Scotland as he featured against Brazil and Portugal.

After leaving the club in 1967, he enjoyed spells at Leicester City and Brighton and Hove Albion.

After retiring from playing, he went on to manage Birmingham City and Lincoln City.

In 1979, Bell moved to the United States and started coaching at Liberty University until he retired.

A statement from Leeds read: “Our thoughts are with Willie’s widow Pat, his three children, Bill, Andrew and Caroline, and his seven grandchildren, along with his friends at this difficult time.”

Many of the club’s supporters have taken to social media to share their condolences.

One tweeted: “Rip Willie”.

A second wrote: “The thoughts of everyone at LUFC are with the friends and family of former defender Willie Bell, who has sadly passed away at 85″.

A third said: “RIP Willie. Sending comfort and strength to all who loved you.”