Tributes have poured in for Viv Busby, a top level footballer whose last appointment in the game was as assistant manager at Workington Reds.
Busby, 74, has died in Spain where he went to live after leaving his position at Reds where he worked under manager Darren Edmondson.
And Edmondson led the local tributes for Busby, who had also worked at Gretna when Brooks Mileson was in charge.
“He was a great football man, but more than that he was a great person, a real gentleman and somebody whom I learnt a lot from.
“I felt rather humble when he accepted an offer to be my number two at Workington and I’m sure he’s one of the football greats that have served Reds over the years.
“It was sad that he had to leave Reds when he did but his breathing had been a problem and a move to Spain in 2011 was made to help that. My thoughts are with his wife and daughters at this time,” said Edmondson, now manager of Penrith.
Alan Clark, who was kitman during Busby’s time at the Reds, said: “He was a great bloke, always had great banter and a smile and a word for everyone. He will be missed by all who knew him.”
Alec Graham, the Workington secretary, said: ‘He was a lovely man. I feel privileged to have known him.”
Busby played 370 League games for the likes of Fulham (118), Luton (77) and Stoke City (50).
After his playing career he coached at York, Sunderland and was at Swindon when he was diagnosed with leukaemia but recovered after a six-month battle.
Busby was held in particular high regard at Fulham, helping them reach the FA Cup final in 1975 where they lost to West Ham.
