Swansea legend Mel Charles passes away aged 81

Swansea City have paid tribute to Mel Charles, the former Swansea, Wales and Arsenal player who has passed away at the age of 81.

Officials at the Welsh club confirmed that Charles, who was the brother of Juventus and Leeds legend John Charles, died peacefully on Saturday.

Charles had a footballing career spanning 20 years and was part of the Wales 1958 World Cup squad.

A fan favourite at his hometown club of Swansea, he scored 66 goals in 233 league appearances for the Swans.

Speaking to the club website, coach Alan Curtis said: "It's a sad, sad loss.

"Mel was part of a huge sporting family in Swansea.

"Not only was he highly respected as a footballer, he was a fantastic character who enjoyed life to the full. Everybody loved to be in his company.

"There is no doubt he will go down as one of Swansea and Wales' greatest players and will now join that great football team in heaven." 

Former Swans great and ex-Wales international Mel Nurse said: "We were brought up together with his brother John. 

"We went to Cwmbwrla and Manselton schools. I followed him on and off the field. I will miss him. 

"He was a big character - Swansea has lost a legend. 

"Anyone who had anything to do with Mel knew he was a big personality. He will be sorely missed." 

Charles made his debut for Swansea in 1952 aged 17 where he stayed for seven years before joining Arsenal in a fee worth £42,750.

His time at Highbury was blighted by injuries and he returned to Wales in 1962, playing at Cardiff, Porthmadog, Port Vale and Haverfordwest.