Former Leeds hero Terry Yorath – father of TV presenter Gabby

Former Wales international Terry Yorath has died at the age of 75, his family announced this morning.

Cardiff-born Yorath, who won 59 caps for his country, is best remembered for his time at Leeds, for whom he made 199 appearances and helped the West Yorkshire club to the First Division title in 1974.

His daughter Gabby was pulled away from presenting BBC Match of the Day last night with replacement Mark Chapman explaining she had to deal with a “family emergency.”

Yorath was a ‘quiet, kind and gentle man’

Gabby was one of four children, alongside Louise, Jordan and Daniel, who died aged 15 from a heart condition while playing football at home with his father.

A statement from the children read: “To most he was a revered footballing hero, but to us he was dad; a quiet, kind and gentle man. Our hearts are broken but we take comfort knowing that he will be reunited with our brother, Daniel.”

Leeds this morning said: “Everyone at Leeds United is devastated to learn of the passing of club legend Terry Yorath.

“Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are with Terry’s family, friends and former teammates at this incredibly sad time. Rest in peace, Terry.”

Present at Valley Parade fire

After leaving Elland Road, Yorath had spells with Coventry, Tottenham, Vancouver, Bradford and Swansea before moving into coaching.

He was assistant coach at Bradford on the day of the fire at Valley Parade that killed 56 fans in 1985.

Yorath managed Wales between 1988 and 1993 and almost led them to a first World Cup finals since 1958.