Northern Ireland legends lead tributes to defensive hero Chris Nicholl

Former Northern Ireland defender Chris Nicholl has passed away at the age of 77

Pat Jennings is among those to pay tribute to former NI team-mate Chris Nicholl, having both played under Billy Bingham

Northern Ireland legends Sammy McIlroy, Gerry Armstrong and Pat Jennings have led the tributes to their former international comrade Chris Nicholl following his sad passing, aged 77.

Nicholl was part of Billy Bingham’s heroic side which reached the World Cup Finals in 1982 where they stunned hosts Spain 1-0.

The former Southampton and Aston Villa centre-back made his international debut in 1974 and won 51 caps for Northern Ireland.

Armstrong, who scored the famous winner in Valencia, said Nicholl’s former team-mates have been left deeply saddened.

“He was a top man, and nearly all the members of that squad have been in touch with me to say how sad they feel,” said the former Tottenham striker.

“He had an incredible career as a player and manager.

“John McClelland told me he learned a lot from Chris. You couldn’t meet a better professional and he took no nonsense.

“His partnership with John was brilliant.”

Pat Jennings is among those to pay tribute to former NI team-mate Chris Nicholl, having both played under Billy Bingham

Nicholl made 210 appearances for Villa before playing 228 times for Southampton, and a professional career spanning 19 years also included spells with Burnley, Witton Albion, Halifax Town, Luton Town and Grimsby Town.

He wore the captain’s armband at Aston Villa, helping the club lift the Football League Cup in 1975 and 1977.

As well as serving as Northern Ireland assistant manager and Under-21 boss during Lawrie McMenemy’s time with the senior side, he was Saints manager for six years and Walsall boss