LEEDS have paid tribute to former player Mick Bates who has died aged 73.
The midfielder played 191 times for the Whites and was part of Don Revie’s legendary side in the late 1960s and early 70s.
He spent 12 years with Leeds and will be mostly remembered for his role in the 1971 Inter-Cities Fairs Cup final.
Bates came off the bench in the first-leg to equalise against Juventus before Leeds triumphed in the reverse fixture on away goals.
He was part of the side that won two league titles, in 1969 and 1974, won the FA Cup in 1972 and the League Cup in 1968.
Bates’ achievements under Revie ensured he was granted the Freedom of Leeds in 2019.
A comment on Leeds’ official site read: “Leeds United is deeply saddened to learn of the death of former player Mick Bates at the age of 73.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with Mick’s wife Jill, son Paul and the rest of his family at this difficult time.”
Bates left Leeds in 1976, signing for Walsall in a £25,000 deal.
He spent two years with the Saddlers before playing for Bradford and eventually retiring at his home club Doncaster in 1981.
Tributes have poured in for the former midfielder with Walsall writing: “Walsall Football Club are saddened to hear that former player Mick Bates has passed away at the age of 73.
“The thoughts of everyone at the football club are with his family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.”
The Leeds United Supporters Club added: “Leeds United Supporters Club are sad to hear of the passing of former player Mick Bates.
“All our thoughts are with his family and friends RIP.”
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
