Football legend Tommy Cassidy, who managed Workington Reds for six years, has died.

The former Newcastle United and Northern Ireland player was 73, and had been suffering from Alzheimer's Disease.

An emotional tribute was posted on X by Mr Cassidy's daughter Hannah.

"Everybody dies but not everybody lives and my God did he live a life," she said.

"Father, grandad, son, brother, uncle and footballer - the very best kind of man. Rest in peace dad, we love you endlessly."

Mr Cassidy was manager at Workington from 2001 to 2007.

During that time he led the Borough Park club to two promotions, leading the club to National League North.

His spell in management followed an illustrious career as a player, which saw Cassidy play in the top-flight, in an FA Cup final and at the 1982 World Cup.

The Belfast-born player joined Newcastle from Glentoran in 1970, and went on to become a key player in the Magpies' midfield for the next ten years.

He made 239 appearances for the club and played in Newcastle's FA Cup final against Liverpool in 1974, and then again at Wembley in 1976 in the League Cup final against Manchester City.

He moved to Burnley in 1980 and during this time he played for Northern Ireland at the 1982 World Cup, including a substitute appearance in their famous 1-0 win over host nation Spain.

Cassidy spent ten years at Newcastle UnitedCassidy spent ten years at Newcastle United (Image: PA)

He was a room-mate of the great George Best during his time on the international scene, where Cassidy won 24 caps.

He went on to play in Cyprus with APOEL, where he started his managerial career, later having spells in charge of Gateshead, Glentoran, Ards and Sligo Rovers before being appointed Workington boss in 2001, when he succeeded Peter Hampton at the helm.

After six years in west Cumbria, he took charge of Newcastle Blue Star and had later spells managing Whitby Town and Blyth Spartans.

He also had a spell as a pundit on BBC Radio Cumbria, where he was co-commentator on their Carlisle United coverage.

In 2021 it was confirmed he was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease.

Workington have expressed their "deep sadness" at the news.

In a statement on the club website, Reds said: "He was revered at Workington and proved to be one of the most popular managers during the non-league era.

"It is only a few months since Tommy’s wife, Rosemary, passed away so a particularly sad time for their respective families and friends.

"We send our condolences to all."

Newcastle United added: "The thoughts of everyone at Newcastle United are with Tommy's family and friends."