Tributes on Tayside to Tannadice legend
Fans and family hailed Dundee United legend Jim Mclean last night after his death at the age of 83. He was United’s most successful ever manager, steering the Tannadice club to success in Scotland and Europe across two decades.
His family said: “Jim was a muchloved husband, father, brother, uncle and father-in-law, and we will all sadly miss him. His remarkable six-decade career made him a true legend, not only at Dundee United, but across the world of football.
“Jim’s achievements in leading Dundee United to the Scottish Premier League title in 1983 and to the semi-final of the following season’s European Cup are unlikely ever to be repeated. This is a very sad day for our family, but we will be eternally proud of Jim. We would ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time for our family.”
The club also issued a statement saying it was “extremely saddened” by the news. It said: “An integral part of our history and rise to the forefront of European football, Jim was simply a titan of Dundee United folklore, cherished by the United family the world over. He will be sorely missed by us all.”
Mclean, who had been living in a care home after suffering dementia, led United through a series of successful campaigns including the Scottish Premier League title in 1983 and the European Cup semi-final in 1984. He managed United from 1971-93, becoming the longest-serving and most successful manager in the club’s history, and was also assistant to Jock Stein with the Scotland national team in the early 1980s.
Former Dundee United player Graeme Taylor said: “One of the greatest football managers of all time RIP gaffer.” Deacon Blue’s Ricky Ross said: “Jim Mclean took us on a wild and impossible dream.”
TV’S Lorraine Kelly, a huge Dundee United fan, said: “Very sad news. RIP Jim Mclean.”
Tributes to Mr United