Sunderland Football Club have paid tribute to legendary defender Charlie Hurley after the sad news of his passing. The King, as he was known to the red and white faithful, was the Club’s Player of the Century in 1979 and is one of the greatest players to represent the Black Cats.

Amassing over 400 appearances during his time on Wearside - one of just ten players to do so - Hurley was a man mountain on the pitch and would spend 12 years with Sunderland, helping them win promotion in 1963-64.

A club statement read: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Hurley, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of Sunderland AFC. Named the Club’s Player of the Century in 1979, The King was a giant in the story of SAFC and his legacy on Wearside will forever endure.

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"A man mountain on the pitch and a gentleman off it, Charlie’s aura and charisma ensured that he was adored and idolised by supporters and team-mates alike. The defender started his career with Millwall in 1953 and he made over 100 appearances for the Lions before moving to Sunderland four years later.

"Hailed as ‘the greatest centre-half the world has ever seen’ by the Roker Park faithful, Charlie spent 12 memorable years on Wearside and forged an eternal bond with the Club’s supporters.

"He featured in all but one game during the Lads’ 1963-64 promotion-winning campaign and following his farewell appearance in 1969, he remains one of only ten players to surpass 400 appearances in red and white.

"London raised but Cork born, Charlie was a fiercely proud Irishman and he won 40 caps for his country in total, including 38 whilst representing Sunderland. A spell with Bolton Wanderers concluded his playing career and preceded a five-year tenure as manager of Reading, which led to an emotional homecoming when en route to winning the FA Cup in 1973, Sunderland hosted the Royals in the fourth round and The King returned to Wearside.

"Charlie later scouted for Southampton before settling in Hertfordshire, but Sunderland always remained in his heart and his final visit to Wearside came in November 2016. Player of the Century and a Hall of Fame inductee, the Club came together seven years ago to pay tribute to The King on his 80th birthday.

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"Charlie was joined by family members and fellow players from the 1963-64 promotion-winning team, which he captained, including Cecil Irwin, Len Ashurst, Martin Harvey, Brian Usher, George Herd, Stan Anderson and Jimmy Montgomery.

"An unforgettable day began with the Charlie Hurley gates, which used to form the entrance to the Club's training ground, being installed as a permanent fixture at the Stadium of Light. It ended in equally emotional fashion, as the Stadium of Light serenaded a Wearside icon and a true Club legend.

"Charlie adored Sunderland and Sunderland will always adore him. Our heartfelt sympathies are with his family, and all who loved him."