Former Shelbourne and European Cup winner with Manchester United Tony Dunne passes away at 78

Former Republic of Ireland, Manchester United and Shelbourne full-back Tony Dunne has passed away at the age of 78.

The Dubliner, a European Cup winner in 1968, played 33 times for his country and his haul of 535 puts him eighth in the Red Devils’ all-time appearance-makers.

Dunne joined Matt Busby’s Manchester United as an 18-year-old in 1960 just a week after helping Shelbourne to lift the FAI Cup.

He helped the Old Trafford club to FA Cup success in 1963 and was part of league-winning sides in 1965 and 1967 before playing 120 minutes of United’s 4-1 European Cup final win over Benfica.

After leaving the Red Devils in 1973, Dunne spent six seasons with Lancashire neighbours Bolton Wanderers before finishing his professional career in the USA with the Detroit Express.

After retiring in 1979, Dunne spent time as Jimmy Armfield’s assistant at Bolton before a stint in charge of Norwegian side Steinkjer.

One of our greatest-ever full-backs. An integral part of the 1968 European Cup-winning side,” read a tribute from Manchester United on social media.

“A player who made 535 appearances in the red shirt of Manchester United. Our heartfelt condolences go to the loved ones of Tony Dunne. May he rest in peace.”

Shelbourne tweeted: “Shelbourne FC is saddened to send our condolences to the family and friends of former FAI Cup winning Shels player Tony Dunne after his passing.

“Tony had a glittering career winning a European Cup with @ManUtd and 33 caps for @FAIreland. RIP Tony.”

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