Gary Sprake, former Leeds United and Wales goalkeeper, dies aged 71
Wednesday 19 October 2016 19:21, UK
Former Leeds United and Wales goalkeeper Gary Sprake has died at the age of 71, the club have announced.
Sprake was a key member of Don Revie's all-conquering Leeds side which won the First Division title in 1969, and reached the European Cup semi-final in 1970.
He was part of the Leeds team that lifted the Fairs Cup in 1968 and 1971, while he also collected a League Cup winner's medal in 1968.
He played for Leeds for 11 years in all and made 504 appearances before leaving for Birmingham City in 1973. A back injury was to curtail his career at the age of 30 just two years later. He also won 37 caps for Wales.
"It is with immense sadness, that today Leeds United Football Club learnt of the passing of former goalkeeper, Gary Sprake at the age of 71," a club statement read. "All the players, management, and staff at Leeds United sends its condolences and support to the Sprake family at this difficult time.
"Gary played over 500 times during an 11 year period for Leeds United, of which the club won the Second Division and First Division titles, in addition to the League Cup and two Inter-Cities Fairs Cups.
"As a mark of respect, we will be holding a minute's applause ahead of kick-off at next Tuesday's EFL Cup game against Norwich City."
