Former England star Mick McNeil who remarkably earned his place in the Three Lions squad whilst playing club football in the second tier has tragically died. McNeil, 85, was featuring in the old Second Division when he first received his international call-up – and despite never gracing the top flight, went on to represent his nation with distinction.
He tragically died earlier this week, with Middlesbrough announcing the sad news through a social media statement. Boro’s statement read: “The club was saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Michael McNeil. Mick was born in Middlesbrough on February 7, 1940. A flying full-back, he began his Boro career aged just 18 and rapidly established himself as a feature in the team.
“Quick into the tackle and eager to carry the ball forward, Mick had bags of energy and was versatile too. He starred at left-back before switching to right-back following the emergence of club record appearance holder Gordon Jones, and later into the middle of defence as Cyril Knowles came onto the scene.
“Mick won nine England caps between 1960 and 1961, all despite playing in the Second Division.
“He later played more than 150 games for Ipswich Town, helping them to promotion in 1967/68, and finished his career at Cambridge. After retiring from the game, he opened a successful chain of sports shops.
“Mick passed away earlier this week at the age of 85. Our thoughts go out to Mick’s family and friends.”
McNeil made his England debut in a 5-2 victory over Northern Ireland in October 1960, playing alongside future England manager Sir Bobby Robson. He would go on to earn nine caps for the Three Lions.
Ipswich Town, where McNeil also showcased his talent, expressed their sorrow: “The club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former captain Mick McNeil.
“Mick represented the Blues 173 times between 1964 and 1972 and was part of the side which won the Second Division title in 1967/68. Once a Blue, always a Blue.”
In 1964, he transferred to Ipswich Town for a fee of £17,000, taking on the role of club captain, and played a key role in Bill McGarry’s team winning promotion to the top flight in 1968. In total, he appeared in 173 matches for the club, netting five goals during his eight-year tenure at Portman Road.
Supporters have also seized the opportunity to honour one of the club’s legends. “Awful, he was a great player and will be fondly remembered,” one fan commented.