Legendary Newcastle goalkeeper Willy McFaul passes away: club bids farewell.

We Sing About Willy McFaul

According to The Sun: Newcastle legend Willy McFaul passed away at the age of 82.

This outstanding player played nearly 400 matches for his club, and his former team honored his memory on Saturday evening.

Career and Legacy

At St James' Park, McFaul won the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969.

After that, he became the coach of his beloved team for three years, during which young Paul Gascoigne gained popularity among Newcastle fans.

The team honored his memory with a heartfelt message on social media which read:

“We are deeply saddened by the news that our former player and manager Willy McFaul has passed away at the age of 82. Born in Coleraine, Willy joined us from Linfield and played 386 matches for the club from 1966 to 1975. All of us from Newcastle United extend our heartfelt condolences to Willy's family. Our players will wear black armbands during tomorrow's Premier League match against Nottingham Forest in his honor.”

McFaul joined Newcastle from Linfield in 1966 and soon became the first-choice goalkeeper, playing a total of 386 matches.

He helped the team reach the FA Cup final in 1974 where Newcastle lost to Liverpool 3-0 and was in goal during the legendary victory in the Inter-Cities Fairs Cup in 1969.

McFaul also earned six caps for Northern Ireland, often finding himself behind the legendary goalkeeper Pat Jennings.

Service to the Club and Recognition

After retiring as a player in 1975, he stayed with the club, working as a coach and later as assistant manager. His real breakthrough came in 1985 when he was appointed head coach of Newcastle after a brief period as interim manager.

He quickly made fan favorite Gazza his main player, despite him being only 18 years old. McFaul managed to lead the team to eighth place in the league but was sacked in 1988 due to an unfortunate series of defeats.

Subsequently, he coached the Northern Ireland club Coleraine and even served as the head coach for the Guam national team.

In the later years of his life, McFaul worked as a scout for Norwich City and remained a favorite among Newcastle fans of all generations.

On social media, condolences were expressed, including from the official Newcastle supporter club, which noted:

“NUST mourns the death of Willy McFaul. We extend our condolences to his family and friends.”

One fan commented: “Absolutely devastated, he did everything that was asked of him at Newcastle.”

Another added: “Sad news, rest in peace.”

Yet another wrote: “Really sorry to read this, rest in peace.”

Willy McFaul left a significant mark in the history of the club. Through his dedication and talent, he became a symbol of Newcastle for many generations of supporters. His contribution to the development of the team cannot be overstated, and the memories of his playing and coaching will live on in the hearts of fans for many years to come.