Tottenham fans were left saddened as they learned of club legend Joe Kinnear’s passing. The former defender passed away at the age of 77 per the family statement, having suffered from dementia since 2015. While undoubtedly a classy defender, Kinnear also enjoyed eventful spells as a manager in charge of teams like India and Nepal. Born in Dublin, Ireland, Kinnear always did things his way and that translated into his playing career.

After being rejected by Watford in a trial at the age of 15, Kinnear worked as an apprentice printer to keep his soccer dream alive. Soon he was spotted by Tottenham chief scout Dick Walker and after a successful trial, he got his professional contract at 18. What followed next was one of the most successful periods in Tottenham’s history.

In 196 appearances Joe Kinnear won the League Cup twice, FA Cup as well as the UEFA Cup. Along with the likes of Jimmy Greaves, Danny Blanchflower, and Dave Mackay, he was a pillar of the Tottenham side under manager Bill Nicholson. As such, tributes are pouring in for this soccer legend.

Soccer world pays their respect to Joe Kinnear

It’s not just Tottenham fans, but fans of the sport who are shocked by the news of Joe Kinnear’s demise.

One fan paid his condolences to the former defender while adding that old is gold. Furthermore, he even attached a video that contains Kinnear crediting his players for his success.

A Tottenham account also expressed admiration for their club legend. Joe Kinnear played for Spurs between 1965 and 1975 before leaving for Brighton and Hove Albion. He won 4 trophies at the club along with the charity shield (shared) in 1967.

An account named Jo labelled Joe Kinnear as an absolute character while adding that he was never once to mince his words. Notably, this brings into memory an infamous press conference by the former Tottenham star. Kinnear once asked who is Simon Bird (Daily Mirror) while in a presser. Upon learning his identity, Kinnear labelled him as a c**t!

Professional Jason Euell was shocked at the news and thanked Kinnear for handing him his soccer debut. Notably, Euell made his debut for Wimbledon in 1995 when Kinnear was in charge. Kinnear was the manager of Wimbledon from 1992-1999 and he never stayed at a club for more.

A broadcaster named Stuart Clarke termed Joe Kinnear a lovely man and added that he should have been Ireland’s manager. However, despite earning 26 caps for the national team, the Irish FA never appointed him in charge.

A Luton Town fan also paid to his condolences to the club’s former manager. Notably, Joe Kinnear took over Luton Town in 2001 and in his second season, he secured the club’s first promotion in 20 years! However, his tenure at Luton didn’t last long and lost his job in 2003 under mysterious circumstances.

Joe Kinnear’s departure leaves a huge void in the world of soccer. While the news is disappointing, his contributions have enriched countless clubs and national teams, and that is something worth cherishing.

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