FORMER Crystal Palace star John Jackson has died.
The Eagles confirmed the passing of the 80-year-old with a statement on their website.
It read: “Crystal Palace are mourning the loss of former goalkeeper John Jackson, who has passed away at the age of 80.
“Jackson came through as a young player at the club, replacing Bill Glazier in 1964 and going on to make 222 consecutive appearances – including being ever-present in 1968/69 as Palace reached the top-flight for the first time.
“Nicknamed ‘Stonewall’ by the fans at Selhurst Park, he featured in some of the club’s most famous games, including a 5-0 victory over Manchester United in 1972.”
Two of the goalkeepers other former clubs, Ipswich Town and Leyton Orient also paid tribute to him.
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The O’s tribute read: “Jackson came to the club in October 1973, signed by manager George Petchey, who knew Jackson from their time together at Crystal Palace.
“Jackson was in fact one of several former Palace players that Petchey brought to the club, others including Bill Roffey, Gerry Queen and Phil Hoadley.
“Jackson made 19 appearances in his first season at the O’s, helping the side to finish fourth in the Second Division.
“Following an infamous 2-0 loss at home to Manchester United on the opening day of the 1974-75 season, Jackson would not miss a single Football League game for the club over the next five seasons.”
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After making well over 550 appearances for Orient and Palace, Jackson’s career then led him to the USA, where he faced the late Pele’s New York Cosmos.
The Brazilian legend named Jackson as one of the toughest ‘keepers he has faced.
Following his cameo in the USA he returned to England with Millwall where he stayed for two seasons before moving to Ipswich Town.
Following his impressive debut, then manager Bobby Robson said: “We have paid him a year’s salary to make those saves, but it was worth it!”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
