Derry City FC has said the entire club is “deeply saddened” to learn of the passing of Jim McLaughlin.
Jim, a native of the city, was one of the most successful managers in Irish football.
A proud Derry man, Jim played for and managed the Candystripes during his career.
As manager he led City to the historic domestic Treble in the 1988-89 season.
His managerial track record before returning to the Brandywell had seen him dominate the domestic game. He led Dundalk and then Shamrock Rovers to league titles and was in charge of the “Three in a Row” side at Milltown.
He returned to the Brandywell and took over from Noel King in 1986. The famous days of the late 1980s saw City rise to the top of Irish football, culminating with the historic Treble of 1988/89.
A spokesperson for Derry City FC said: “Picking up the three major domestic trophies has never been equalled since.
“Jim’s contribution was recognised throughout Irish football and he was awarded Special Merit Awards by both the Football Association of Ireland and the Soccer Writers Association.
“The historic nature of his achievements at Brandywell was reflected in 2019 when he was awarded the Freedom of the City by the local council.
“The family connections continued with both his son Paul and grandson Ben appearing for the club.
“All connected to Derry City would like to pass on our condolences to his wife Reina; his children Sean, Paul, Martin and Jane, as well as his many grandchildren.”
30 April 1989; The Derry City manager Jim McLaughlin lines up alongside his team before the start of the Fai Cup Final match against Cork City at Dalymount Park in Dublin. Photo by Ray McManus/Sportsfile
SDLP leader Colum Eastwood said: “Jim McLaughlin was a real life Derry legend.
“You name it, he won it and he gave everyone who followed his teams a lot of happy memories along the way – especially during the ‘89 treble campaign. One of the greatest. “Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.”
League of Ireland director Mark Scanlon said: “We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim McLaughlin. Jim is a true League of Ireland legend who achieved unprecedented success in our game.
“As well as his incredible career in Irish football, Jim was a remarkable person who will be greatly missed by everyone in Irish football. I would like to extend our sympathies on behalf of the League of Ireland and the FAI to Jim’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane Lilian Seenoi-Barr said her thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Jim McLaughlin
“Jim brought unbridled pride and joy to our city during one of the most difficult periods in its history and his legacy will live on at the Brandywell,” she added.