Nidhish Waghmare
Former Aberdeen and Arsenal defender Willie Young has passed away at the age of 73. The Scottish centre-back made his name at Aberdeen F.C. before moving south to join Arsenal, where he lifted the FA Cup in 1979. Young became a key figure in football history after his infamous tackle on Paul Allen in the 1980 FA Cup Final, which led to the introduction of the “professional foul” law.
In a statement, Arsenal said his “physicality and commitment made him a cult figure” with the club’s supporters. They added:
“Reliable, dominant in the air and fearless, his immense contribution to a successful period means he will always be remembered fondly by those who saw his colossal frame repelling attacks and causing havoc to opposition defences at set pieces.”
From Heriot to Highbury – Young’s Rise in Football
Born in Edinburgh and raised in Heriot, Midlothian, Young began his senior career with Aberdeen in 1970. After five successful years at Pittodrie, he joined Tottenham Hotspur in 1975, later moving across North London to Arsenal in 1977 to reunite with manager Terry Neill.
Standing at 6 ft 3 in with his trademark ginger hair, Young formed a dominant partnership with David O’Leary, reaching three straight FA Cup finals between 1978 and 1980. His crowning moment came in the dramatic 3-2 win over Manchester United in 1979, famously dubbed the “five-minute final.”
However, his name became synonymous with controversy a year later. In the 1980 final against West Ham, Young brought down a 17-year-old Paul Allen as the forward raced toward goal. The foul stopped a clear scoring chance, yet Young received only a yellow card. The incident provoked widespread debate, leading to the introduction of automatic red cards for denying obvious goal-scoring opportunities two years later.
Later Career and Lifetime Scotland Ban
Despite his achievements in England, Young never earned a senior cap for Scotland. His exclusion followed the infamous “Copenhagen Five” nightclub incident, which resulted in a lifetime ban from international duty. While teammates Joe Harper and Arthur Graham were later cleared, Young’s suspension remained permanent.
After leaving Arsenal in 1981, having made 237 appearances, he joined Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough. Injuries curtailed his later spells at Norwich City, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Darlington, leading to his retirement in 1984.
Tributes and Legacy
Clubs and supporters across the UK have paid tribute to the defender. Aberdeen said the team was “saddened” to learn of his passing. Arsenal’s heartfelt message highlighted his “colossal frame” and his fearless leadership during one of the club’s most successful periods.
Willie Young leaves behind a legacy defined by power, resilience, and an unforgettable influence on the laws of football.
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