FORMER Chelsea and Bristol City star Chris Garland has died aged 74.
The forward passed away after a long illness.
Garland spent five years at Ashton Gate, before leaving for Chelsea in 1971 for £100,000.
He went on to play 31 times in 114 appearances for the Blues over four seasons, being described on their official website as a “penetrating, hard-working and unselfish attacker.”
Following the sad news of their former striker’s passing, Chelsea wrote: “We send our deepest condolences to Chris’ family and friends.”
While Bristol City have also paid tribute.
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They tweeted: “The club are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Garland at the age of 74.
“Rest in Peace to a Bristol City legend.”
Following Chelsea’s relegation in 1975, Garland moved to Leicester City in a £95k deal, staying in the top flight in the process.
He played for the Foxes for two years before returning to hometown club Bristol City for £110k.
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Garland stayed at Ashton Gate for a further seven seasons before hanging up his boots in 1983.
In total he played 248 times over his two spells for City, scoring 54 goals.
He held the distinction of being one of just two players, alongside Tom Ritchie, of having played in all four Football League divisions for City.
Garland also had the honour of representing England at Under-23 level.
Following his retirement, he went on to manage non-league Somerset side Minehead, while he also coached at Yeovil.
Garland revealed in 1992 that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in the previous few years.
Chelsea’s official website reveals that Blues legend Peter Osgood was one of the first people he told of his diagnosis.
He married first wife Patricia Cooper in 1970, with the former couple having three children together, Adam, Ryan and Jess.
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Daughter Jess Thirlby is head coach of the England netball team, having previously played for her country.
After splitting with Patricia following 25 years of marriage, Garland went on to remarry in 2004 – tying the knot with partner Ruth.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
