Former Manchester United supervisor Frank O’Farrell has died on the age of 94.
The Irishman was in control of the Crimson Devils between July 1971 and December 1972, succeeding Sir Matt Busby who briefly returned to administration after the dismissal of his preliminary successor, Wilf McGuinness.
O’Farrell led United’s first division title cost in the course of the 1971/72 season, dropping solely as soon as in his first 14 league video games, however they finally fell out of the race and completed eighth.
He was finally sacked as United supervisor in late 1972 after a 5-0 defeat to Crystal Palace left the membership third from backside within the Premier League. His general document at Manchester United noticed him win 30 out of 81 matches.
O’Farrell performed half winger for West Ham United
Born in Cork in 1927, O’Farrell was a railroad employee and firefighter earlier than becoming a member of Eire’s Cork United in 1947. A 12 months later, his left half joined West Ham for £3,000 and made his debut with the Hammers in 1950. After That is over 200 video games for the East London membership, and he joined Preston in 1956 the place he performed alongside membership legend Sir Tom Finney.
O’Farrell was additionally topped 9 instances with the Republic of Eire nationwide workforce between 1952 and 1959, and scored two objectives for his nation.
He moved to Weymouth earlier than ending his taking part in days in 1961 as a consequence of harm, and instantly stepped into administration on the membership the place he retired. He spent 4 years at Weymouth earlier than transferring to Torquay United, the place he reached the third tier.
Earlier than transferring to Manchester United, O’Farrell spent a interval in Leicester Metropolis, the place he led them to the 1969 FA Cup closing, and misplaced to Manchester Metropolis, and he couldn’t forestall them from relegation within the first diploma, however he introduced them again to promotion. to the highest in 1971.
He signed a five-year contract value £15,000 a 12 months at Outdated Trafford, with membership legend Busby recommending O’Farrell for the position. He managed the likes of Bobby Charlton and Dennis Legislation, however fell out with co-star George Greatest. After being sacked by the Crimson Devils, he spent quick stints with Cardiff Metropolis, the Iranian nationwide workforce and the individuals, whereas additionally returning to Torquay on two events.
An announcement from Torquay on Monday learn: “Having achieved a lot at Torquay United AFC, and having laid the foundations for a lot of of his subsequent successes, Frank O’Farrell’s standing as a membership legend is unquestionable, and though his passing leaves a void. He’s by no means crammed, we stay lucky that such a big and profitable a part of his profession was spent at our membership.
“The ideas, prayers and condolences of everybody at Torquay United Soccer Membership goes to all Frank’s household and associates at this very unhappy time.”
O’Farrell retired from administration in 1983 however held scouting positions for Everton and Bolton Wanderers, whereas additionally working a nursing dwelling along with his spouse Anne in Devon.
