Tottenham and England legend Martin Chivers dies, aged 80

Spurs lead tributes to their “legendary” former No9

Martin Chivers, the “legendary” former Tottenham and England striker, has passed away aged 80.

Chivers is among Spurs’ greatest ever players and remains third on their list of all-time top goalscorers.

Spurs announced the news on Wednesday ahead of their Premier League match against Bournemouth.

Following a prolific six-year spell with hometown club Southampton, Chivers joined Spurs for a then-club record fee of £125,000 in 1968, making him the country’s most expensive footballer at the time.

He scored on his debut and, after the sale of fellow Tottenham legend Jimmy Greaves to West Ham in 1970, broke through as the north London club’s chief goal threat.

“Big Chiv” went on to score 118 goals in 278 appearances for Spurs , as well as netting 13 times in 24 senior England caps.

A statement from Spurs read: “It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our legendary former striker, Martin Chivers.

“We extend our deepest sympathies to Martin’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly sad time.

“Our players will wear black armbands during this evening’s fixture against AFC Bournemouth.

“Rest in peace, Martin. One of the all-time greats.”