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England World Cup winner Jack Charlton dies at 85

By The Assam Tribune

LONDON, July 11: Jack Charlton, an uncompromising central defender who played alongside his brother, Bobby, in England�s World Cup-winning side in 1966 before enjoying coaching success with Ireland, has died. He was 85.

Nicknamed Big Jack, and celebrated for his earthy beer and cigarettes image, Charlton was Footballer of the Year in England in 1967. He spent all his club career at Leeds from 1952-73, tying its all-time record of 773 appearances. He won every domestic honour, including the league title in 1969.

Charlton died at home on Friday in his native Northumberland in northeast England, surrounded by his family. As well as a friend to many, he was a much-adored husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, the family said in a statement.

We cannot express how proud we are of the extraordinary life he led and the pleasure he brought to so many people in different countries and from all walks of life.

He was a thoroughly honest, kind, funny and genuine man who always had time for people. His loss will leave a huge hole in all our lives but we are thankful for a lifetime of happy memories. The England team Twitter account said we are devastated.�

His biggest achievement came with the national team that beat Germany 4-2 after extra time in the 1966 World Cup final at Wembley Stadium.

Bobby, his younger brother, played in midfield. Jack celebrated the victory by partying in a random person�s house in north London, ending up sleeping on the floor. That was typical of the man who kept the common touch despite his fame and remained an affable character, fond of life�s simple pleasures.

I got a lift back the following morning and my mother was playing hell as I hadn�t been to bed all night, Charlton recalled. � AP

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