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Chelsea Great Eddie McCreadie Dies at 85

Tributes focus on a dual legacy as cup-winning defender turned manager, credited with restoring Chelsea to the top flight.

Overview

  • Chelsea confirmed McCreadie’s death at 85, calling him one of the great figures in the club’s history.
  • The Glaswegian full-back joined from East Stirlingshire in 1962 for £5,000 and made about 410 appearances.
  • He scored the decisive goal in the 1965 League Cup final and played every minute of the 1970 FA Cup triumph, earning 23 Scotland caps.
  • Appointed manager in 1975 during financial strain, he rebuilt with youth, won promotion in 1977, then resigned after a dispute with chairman Brian Mears.
  • He later had a brief playing and managerial stint with the NASL’s Memphis Rogues, eventually reconnecting with Chelsea as fans and the club paid tribute.