Crues and Ports pay tribute to 'legend' Liam Dunne

Dunne (right) during his spell with Dundalk

Tributes have been paid to former Crusaders and Portadown midfielder Liam Dunne who has died, aged 54.

The Dubliner began his career with Bohemians in 1990 and returned to the club following a two-season spell at Scottish club St Johnstone.

Dunne joined Crusaders during the 1994 Christmas period, playing a role in that season's title win and then again when Crusaders lifted the Gibson Cup in 1997, while also winning Gold Cup and League Cup medals in 1996.

After five seasons at Seaview, he moved on to Portadown in 1999 and then made the switch to Dundalk the following year where he won the 2002 FAI Cup.

With Crusaders relegated to the second tier of the Irish League, Dunne returned to the north Belfast club in 2005 and helped gain promotion, while also wining the Intermediate and Steel & Sons Cups.

Crusaders chairman Mark Langhammer offered his condolences to Dunne's family, describing the former player as a "legend".

"I can surely say on behalf of everyone who saw Liam Dunne play and knew him at Seaview that we are all in shock at the news he has passed anyway especially at such a young age," he said in a statement.

"Liam was a Crusaders legend having helped us win championships, cups and coming back to help the club out when we were struggling in 2005. Anyone who spoke of Liam had only positive things to say about him both as a player and a person. The football world has lost a legend.

"Liam lit up the pitch every game and he left everything on the pitch when he put on a Crusaders shirt."

He continued: "Can I on behalf of Crusaders Football Club offer the sincere condolences and sympathy to the family of Liam and our thoughts and prayers are with you all at his passing.

"Liam's memory will live long in the minds of everyone who saw him play and many who didn't have that chance to see him will have known about him."

Portadown also paid tribute to to their former player, saying: "Everyone at Portadown Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of former player, Liam Dunne.

"Liam joined the club in 1999 from Crusaders, making 22 appearances and winning a Charity Shield medal on his debut against Glentoran as well as featuring in our Uefa Cup games against CSKA Sofia, before departing in 2000.

"We send our thoughts, prayers and condolences to the Dunne family circle at this sad time."