Former Scotland football star Peter Lorimer dies aged 74

Former Scotland star Peter Lorimer has died at the age of 74.

On Saturday, Lorimer’s former club Leeds United confirmed the record goalscorer for the club had died.

In February, he was moved into a hospice, with the club announcing he was “battling a long term illness.”

The former winger, who scored for the Scotland at the 1974 World Cup during a rare win at the tournament, remains the top scorer in the history of the Yorkshire club.

The attacking midfielder, having become the youngest player to represent United at the age of 15 years and 289 days, netted 238 goals in 705 appearances during two spells at Elland Road.

A statement on the club’s official website said: “It is with great sadness, Leeds United has learned of the passing of club legend Peter Lorimer this morning at the age of 74 following a long-term illness.

“Peter made a huge 705 appearances for the Whites over two spells and is the club’s record goal-scorer, having netted 238 times in all competitions.”

The club’s statement added: “Peter’s contribution to Leeds United will never be forgotten and his passing leaves another huge hole in the Leeds United family.

“He will always remain a club icon and his legacy at Elland Road will live on.

“Our thoughts are naturally with Peter’s wife Sue and the rest of his family at this difficult time. Rest in peace, Peter.”

Lorimer played 21 times for Scotland, scoring four times including one at the 1974 World Cup.

The Scottish FA said on Twitter: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of former @ScotlandNT International, Peter Lorimer. In addition to an outstanding career with @LUFC, Peter won 21 Scotland caps, playing all three matches at the 1974 World Cup and scoring against Zaire.”

Tributes to the former footballer have been paid online, with current Leeds captain Liam Cooper tweeting: “Fly High Peter. A legend that we all aspire to be like. Sending all our love to Peters family”.

Leeds chairman Andrea Radrizzani added: “Another Legend left us. My prayers with the family – it has been an honour to meet you and host you at Elland Road, your home.”