Ex-Ipswich captain & England full-back McNeil dies

Mick McNeil made his England debut as a 20-year-old

Former Ipswich Town captain Mick McNeil has died at the age of 85.

The full-back, who won nine England caps, played 173 games for the club between 1964 and 1972, and was part of the side that won the Second Division title in the 1967-68 season.

Ipswich paid tribute on social media, saying: "The club is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former captain Mick McNeil. Once a Blue, always a Blue."

McNeil started his career at Middlesbrough, making his debut as an 18-year-old and going on to play 193 games for his home-town club.

He was called up for his international debut against Northern Ireland while playing in the second tier for Boro, and was only 21 when he won his last cap against Luxembourg.

"Our thoughts go out to Mick's family and friends," said Middlesbrough.

After retiring from professional football, McNeil went on to open a chain of successful sports shops.