LEEDS LEGEND MADELEY DIES

Tributes pour in for Elland Road legend after he dies, aged 73

PAUL MADELEY, the ‘RollsRoyce’ of Don Revie’s legendary Leeds United squad, has died at the age of 73.

Madeley, inset, who began and ended his professional career with Leeds and played 724 times for the club, passed away yesterday after a long battle with Parkinson’s disease.

Known for his versatility and quality, his influence at Elland Road spawned the phrase ‘The Eleven Pauls’ and earned him his ‘Rolls-Royce’ nickname.

He held his place as a firstteam player for almost 20 years before retiring in 1980. His career spanned the success of the Revie era and saw him claim numerous honours in the 1960s and 1970s as Leeds emerged as serious contenders in England and abroad. A statement was released by Madeley’s family last night which said: “Paul Madeley passed away peacefully today surrounded by his family in Leeds.

“Paul was a much-loved husband, father and brother and the family are extremely proud of his achievements in life and on the field for Leeds United and England.

“He was born in Beeston, a stone’s throw from Elland Road, and only ever played and supported Leeds United.

“The late Don Revie christened him his ‘Rolls-Royce’ and to us he was just that – a class act as a husband and a father who always had time for everyone he met.

“Paul’s wife Ann and sons Jason and Nick would like to thank everyone for their support and well wishes. At this difficult time we ask for privacy as we grieve a great loss.”

Leading the tributes, former teammate Eddie Gray described Madeley as “good enough to play anywhere you asked him to”.