'A true gentleman': Former Irish international Arthur Fitzsimons passes away aged 88

The FAI has paid tribute to former Ireland player Arthur Fitzsimons, who has passed away aged 88.

'A true gentleman': Former Irish international Arthur Fitzsimons passes away aged 88

The FAI has paid tribute to former Ireland player Arthur Fitzsimons, who has passed away aged 88.

The Dubliner enjoyed a successful career, spending 10 years in England with Middlesbrough, making over 200 appearances for the club.

Fitzsimons also enjoyed two separate periods in the League of Ireland which bookended his career.

He lined out with Shelbourne before his move to England and finished up his playing career at Drogheda.

The forward would later manage both teams and would be inducted into the FAI Hall of Fame in 2009.

Fitzsimons earned 26 caps for Ireland and scored seven goals having made his debut in 1949 against Finland.

"The name of Arthur Fitzsimons belongs on the list of great Irish football men," said FAI CEO John Delaney.

"He grew up with Shelbourne in his blood and went on to play for them before his successful move to England

"As an international player, Arthur was skilful, committed and capable of making an impact in big games, just like when he scored twice away to Netherlands in a famous 4-1 victory in 1956.

"Arthur was a proud League of Ireland man and maintained his connection to the domestic game throughout his career. After he finished playing, Arthur spent time in charge of Drogheda, Shamrock Rovers and a League of Ireland XI.

"We send our deepest condolences to Arthur's family and friends at this time and we will remember Arthur at an international game that is suitable for his family.

"He was a true gentleman."

more courts articles

Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother Man (25) in court charged with murdering his father and attempted murder of mother
Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van Man appears in court charged with false imprisonment of woman in van
Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman Man in court over alleged false imprisonment of woman

More in this section

Rangers v Bayer 04 Leverkusen - Friendly Match - Ibrox Stadium Uli Hoeness says 'probably impossible' to lure Xabi Alonso from Bayer in summer
Republic of Ireland Training Session and Media Conference Ogbene ruled out for 'few weeks'
Chelsea v Leicester City - Barclays Women's Super League - Kingsmeadow Willie Kirk sacked as Leicester boss after position became ‘untenable’
Sport Push Notifications

By clicking on 'Sign Up' you will be the first to know about our latest and best sporting content on this browser.

Sign Up
Sport
Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers

Sign up
Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited