Former Scotland and Manchester United boss Tommy Docherty dies age 92

Tommy Docherty, centre, with (l-r) Stuart Pearson, Tommy Cavanagh, Lou Macari, Gordon Hill and Frank Blunstone after winning the FA Cup

Former Manchester United and Scotland manager Tommy Docherty has died at the age of 92 following a long illness, his family have announced in a statement.

Born in the Gorbals in Glasgow, he started his career at Celtic before spending nine years as a player with Preston North End. He then moved to Arsenal and ended his career at Chelsea.

He earned 25 caps for Scotland between 1951 and 1959.

Scotland manager Tommy Docherty (left) with Martin Buchan and Davie Hay, 1971

Known as ‘The Doc’ he went on to manage 12 clubs – including Chelsea, Aston Villa and Derby – as well as a stint in charge of Scotland between 1971 and 1972.

But he was best known for his five-year spell at Old Trafford, overseeing a famous FA Cup final win over Bob Paisley’s Liverpool in 1977.

George Best (left) and manager Tommy Docherty

Docherty died at home in the north-west of England on December 31.

A family spokesperson said in a statement released to the PA news agency: “Tommy passed away peacefully surrounded by his family at home.

“He was a much-loved husband, father and papa and will be terribly missed.

“We ask that our privacy be respected at this time. There will be no further comment.”

A sad loss, as former Scotland player and manager Tommy Docherty passes away.

Tommy earned 25 international caps for Scotland, including at the 1954 & 1958 World Cups.

Tommy went on to become a successful Scotland manager, winning seven of 12 matches in charge between 1971-72. https://t.co/1HZPI1S4BW pic.twitter.com/8QsAaLWuvV

— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) December 31, 2020

We are saddened to hear of the death of Tommy Docherty who spent two years with Celtic in the 1940s. Sincere condolences go out to his family and friends. RIP https://t.co/znGbmuPKoa

— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) December 31, 2020

Docherty was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2013.

Rod Petrie, Scottish FA President, said: “Football has lost a tremendous personality in Tommy Docherty. He was tenacious on the park and a great leader off it.

“Tommy was a regular in the Scotland side in the 1950s that qualified for two World Cups, and his record as Scotland manager was impressive, albeit cut short by his decision to take the Manchester United job.

“He was on record as saying that the biggest regret of his career was leaving his Scotland managerial role and looking at the results and performances he inspired, it is hard not to wonder what might have been had he remained.

“His charisma and love for the game shone even after he stopped managing and it was entirely fitting that Tommy should be inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame for his lifelong service. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this difficult time.”