Sheffield footballing great Derek Dooley dies aged 78
Wednesday, 05 Mar 2008 20:52
Dooley was chairman at Bramall Lane until 2006
Former Sheffield Wednesday player and
Sheffield United chairman Derek Dooley has died today aged 78.
Dooley was involved with both Sheffield clubs and was Sheffield United chairman until 2006 when he retired from the post soon after the club gained promotion to the Premier League.
A book of condolence has been set up at Bramall Lane for fans to pay tribute to Dooley who had the unique ability to unite the city as he was revered by supporters from both Sheffield clubs.
Sheffield United plc chairman Kevin McCabe said: "Derek was Sheffield's greatest ever sporting legend and one of only a few people who achieved the quite incredible feat of winning the utmost respect of football supporters from both sides of the Sheffield divide."
SWFC chief executive, Kaven Walker, also praised Dooley's contribution to football within the city.
He said: "Beyond his involvement with both clubs, Derek was an excellent ambassador for the city of Sheffield and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this very sad and difficult time."
Dooley began his playing career at Lincoln before going on to Wednesday where he was a prolific goalscorer. However, his career ended prematurely following a collision with Preston goalkeeper George Thompson which broke his leg.
He became manager of Wednesday in 1971 but was sacked in 1973. He then moved to the Blades where he took on a number of administration roles before becoming chairman.
In 2003 Dooley was awarded an MBE in the New Years Honours list, something he said at the time he was "fiercely proud of".