Everton hero of the 60s Alex Young, known as ‘the Golden Vision’, passes away in Edinburgh hospital aged 80
Young's family confirmed the former striker had been 'bravely battling' illness in recent weeks but died on Monday morning
EVERTON legend Alex Young, who was one of the most adored players in the club's 139-year history, has passed away peacefully in his native Edinburgh.
Nicknamed 'The Golden Vision', the former striker's family contacted Everton on Monday to confirm the sad news.
"We are all very sad and will miss him terribly," said Young’s son, Alex Junior. "He passed away peacefully with my mum by his side at a small hospital close to Edinburgh.
"He has been ill for a few weeks but he battled on bravely. It’s still very raw but I wanted people on Merseyside to know.
"He loved Everton, he loved being back at Goodison Park. He always said it was like going to church."
Young, who celebrated his 80th birthday earlier this month, made 273 appearances for Everton, scoring 87 goals.
The prolific striker made the move to Goodison from Hearts in November 1960 and went on to win the League Championship in 1963 and the FA Cup just three years later in 1966.
Often described as one of Goodison’s greatest sons, Young was centre-forward 'who combined elegant skill with a boundless determination and passion'.
In offering their condolences to the legendary's Scot's family and friends, Everton said: "Young was a player who glided across even the heaviest of surfaces, shimmying and tricking his way past defenders before effortlessly floating shots past baffled goalkeepers.
"The thoughts of everyone at Everton Football Club are with Alex’s family and many friends at this sad time."