John Giles has issued a glowing tribute to Leeds United legend Norman Hunter, labelling his former teammate as "an exceptional character".
The Whites club icon sadly passed away on Friday after contracting COVID-19.
A club statement from Leeds read: “Leeds United are devastated to learn of the passing of club icon Norman Hunter at the age of 76.
“Norman was taken to hospital last week after being diagnosed with COVID-19 and despite continuing to battle and the best efforts of NHS staff, he sadly lost his fight earlier this morning."
The news has brought together the football community, with tributes to Hunter pouring in from all across the country.
The latest of those comes from former Ireland manager Giles, who has insisted that his former Leeds teammates will hold a gathering in respect of Norman once lockdown measures are lifted.
"I would regard him as a very, very good friend. He was an exceptional character and you could depend on him with your life," Giles told Off The Ball on Newstalk.
"He was very genuine, very modest and would never talk about himself. He felt privileged to play football at the level he was at. I played with him for 12 years, and it is honestly like being in the army together. Especially in those days, you had to stick together. There is a bond from that that never dies.
"I think we will have something when this stuff goes away. I think the Leeds lads will get together with Norman's family at some stage, I'd have no doubt about that. We won't let this go."
