Garry Brooke dead at 64: Tottenham star who won three trophies in four years dies as club pay heartbreaking tribute
FORMER Spurs star Garry Brooke who won the Uefa Cup and two FA Cups has died aged 64.
The midfielder passed away on Saturday morning following a lengthy battle with illness.
Brooke, who was born in Bethnal Green, East London, joined the club as a ten-year-old in 1971.
Ten years later, he was a substitute in the 100th FA Cup final, coming on for superstar Ricky Villa in the 1-1 draw with Manchester City at Wembley.
The Englishman watched from the bench five days later as the Argentine World Cup winner produced a memorable piece of individual magic and scored twice to win the replay 3-2.
Despite suffering with a long injury lay-off the next season, Brooke recovered to play in the 1982 FA Cup final and subsequent replay against QPR, both times as a substitute, collecting a second winner’s medal.
A serious car accident in February 1983 left him fighting for his life and he was never the same player again – though he did play a part in the early rounds of Spurs’ 1983/84 UEFA Cup success.
Brooke, a father-of-two, played for a number of other clubs, including Norwich, Dutch side Groningen, Wimbledon, Brentford and Reading before moving into non-league.
After playing professionally, he coached in local schools and also worked as a matchday reporter for the Press Association and OPTA stats gurus at both Spurs and Leyton Orient.
A statement from Tottenham said: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Garry Brooke this morning, following a lengthy battle with illness.
“Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this impossibly difficult time.”
Norwich City posted: “All at Norwich City are saddened to learn of the passing of former player Garry Brooke after a battle with illness.
“We pass on our sincere condolences to Garry’s loved ones at this sad time.”
Osvaldo “Ossie” Ardiles, who managed Brooke from 1978 through to 1985, said on social media: “Very very sad news. Gary was a wonderful player and even more a wonderful friend.
“My thoughts and prayers with your family and friends.
“Very honoured to have played football with you and been your friend. Rest in peace dear Brooksy.”