John Dempsey dead at 78: Chelsea legend who won FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup dies as tributes pour in

CHELSEA legend John Dempsey has died aged 78.

The former defender spent nine years at Stamford Bridge between 1969 and 1978.

That saw him lift the FA Cup and the European Cup Winners' Cup in back-to-back seasons for the Blues.

In fact, the centre-back scored "one of the crispest volleys seen from a Chelsea player" as the Blues beat Real Madrid 2-1 in the 1971 final replay in Greece.

In total, he scored seven goals in 207 games for the club, having joined from West London rivals Fulham where he started his career.

Chelsea announced his sad passing on Wednesday morning.

The club said: "It is with tremendous sadness that Chelsea Football Club announces the passing of our former centre-back and FA Cup and European Cup Winners’ Cup winner John Dempsey. He was 78.

"All at Chelsea send our heartfelt condolences to John’s wife Trish and all his family and friends at this difficult time."

Dempsey had stints with the Serbian White Eagles and Philadelphia Fury in North America before finishing his career as player-manager at Dundalk in Ireland in 1984.

Born in London, he represented the Republic of Ireland 19 times.

The defender became the first Irish player to be sent off in a World Cup qualifier when he saw red against Hungary before the 1970 tournament.

After his time in football, Dempsey spent time working as a carer supporting adults with autism and learning difficulties in North London.

Tributes poured in from the footballing world for Dempsey following his passing.

One fan said: "Sorry to hear about the death of John Dempsey. A very underrated centre-half and as most of you will know a particular favourite of mine for his iconic hairstyles."

A second wrote: "Rest in peace legend."

A third added: "With heavy hearts, we bid farewell to Chelsea legend John Dempsey. His legacy on the field and his contributions to our club will never be forgotten.

"Our deepest condolences to John’s family and loved ones during this difficult time."

A fourth typed: "A true Chelsea legend who will never be forgotten."

And a fifth replied: "Really sad to hear that Chelsea’s legendary 1970s centre-back John Dempsey has died.

"My ex-wife’s sister worked for the Philadelphia Fury team when he played there and stayed close to him. As a result I got to chat to him and found him to be a lovely, warm, humble man."