Former Aberdeen and Arsenal Player Willie Young Passes Away at 73

Tribute to a Football Icon

Willie Young, the former defender known for his time with Aberdeen and Arsenal, has passed away at the age of 73.

Football Career Highlights

• Aberdeen Service: Young featured in over 180 matches for Aberdeen, contributing significantly to the team.
• FA Cup Glory: He was part of the Arsenal squad that won the FA Cup in 1979.
• Changing Game Dynamics: Young is widely recognized for prompting a rule change in football due to his controversial tackle on West Ham’s Paul Allen during the 1980 FA Cup final.

In a statement, Arsenal described him as a “cult figure,” highlighting his strong presence and commitment on the pitch.

Legacy and Contributions

Arsenal further noted that Young was “reliable, fearless, and dominant in the air,” emphasizing his pivotal role during a prosperous time for the team. The club’s fans fondly remember his contributions, particularly his ability to disrupt opponents during set pieces.

Aberdeen also expressed their sorrow over the news, stating they were “saddened” by his death on their official platform.

Early Life and Rise in Football

Born in Edinburgh and raised in the village of Heriot in Midlothian, Young began his professional journey with Aberdeen in 1970. After five successful years, he transferred to Tottenham Hotspur in 1975. Just two years later, he controversially moved to Arsenal, reuniting with his former Spurs manager, Terry Neill.

Standing at 6 feet 3 inches, Young formed a solid defensive partnership with David O’Leary at Arsenal, reaching three consecutive FA Cup finals from 1978 to 1980. He played a crucial role in Arsenal’s memorable 3-2 victory over Manchester United in the “five-minute final.”

A Notorious Incident

A notable moment in Young’s career occurred the following year, during a match where his tackle on the young player Allen reignited discussions about the need for a rule governing professional fouls. Young’s actions led to the introduction of automatic red cards for denying clear goal-scoring opportunities two years later.

Young also competed in the 1980 Cup Winners’ Cup final against Valencia in Brussels.

International Career Limitations

Despite his club achievements, Young never represented Scotland at the senior level due to a lifetime ban stemming from an incident in a Danish nightclub involving several players, known as the “Copenhagen five.” While some of his peers were later reinstated, he remained excluded from national team duty.

Young left Arsenal in 1981 after making 237 appearances, signing with Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough. His playing career concluded in 1984 due to injuries, following shorter stints at Norwich City, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Darlington.