Terry Yorath, former Leeds hero – father of TV presenter Gabby

Former Wales international Terry Yorath has died aged 75, his family announced this morning.

Cardiff-born Yorath, who won 59 caps for his country, is best known for his time at Leedsfor whom he made 199 appearances and helped the West Yorkshire club win the First Division title in 1974.

Daughter Gabby was removed from presenting the BBC’s Match of the Day last night, with replacement Mark Chapman explaining she had to deal with a “family emergency”.

Yorath was a “calm, kind and gentle man”

Gabby was one of four children, alongside Louise, Jordan and Daniel, who died aged 15 from a heart condition while playing football at home with her father.

A statement from the children read: “To most he was a revered football hero, but to us he was Dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we are comforted to know that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel.”

Leeds said this morning: “Everyone at Leeds United is devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Terry Yorath.

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences go out to Terry’s family, friends and former teammates at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Terry.”

Present at the Valley Parade fire

After leaving Elland Road, Yorath worked for Coventry, Tottenham, Vancouver, Bradford and Swansea before moving into coaching.

He was assistant coach at Bradford on the day of the Valley Parade fire which killed 56 fans in 1985.

Yorath managed Wales between 1988 and 1993 and almost took them to a first World Cup final since 1958.