Former Aberdeen Arsenal Defender Willie Young Dies Age 73

Willie Young, the Scottish footballer known for his robust defense and notable career with Aberdeen, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur, has died at the age of 73. Young played a significant role at Arsenal, making 236 appearances and winning the FA Cup in 1979, while also participating in three consecutive FA Cup finals from 1978 to 1980. He is famously remembered for a pivotal tackle on West Ham's Paul Allen in the 1980 FA Cup final, which led to changes in football laws, specifically the introduction of automatic red cards for denying clear goal-scoring opportunities. Tributes have highlighted his physicality, commitment, and status as a cult hero among fans, with clubs like Arsenal and Aberdeen expressing their condolences. After retiring, Young settled in Nottingham, where he raised a family and ran a pub. His legacy includes his impact on the game’s rules and his memorable presence on the field throughout a respected football career.