Clubs pay tribute to Len Ashurst
Former Sunderland defender and Newport manager Len Ashurst has died at the age of 82.
Ashurst made 409 appearances for the Black Cats – a club record for an outfield player – before moving into management.
He led Newport to the European Cup Winners’ Cup quarter-finals in 1981 and eventually returned to Sunderland, whom he took to the 1985 League Cup final.
Ahead of kick-off today, we will hold a minute's applause to rememember and celebrate Len Ashurst, a true Sunderland icon. #SAFC I #BOLSUNpic.twitter.com/KxXw0B0DNl— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) September 25, 2021
Ashurst’s former clubs led the tributes, with Sunderland announcing they will hold a minute’s applause prior to Saturday’s match against Bolton.
Former goalkeeper Jim Montgomery, the only Sunderland player to surpass Ashurst’s playing record, told the club’s official website: “As a player, Lennie would have kicked his granny because he was a winner.”
Newport tweeted: “Newport County AFC is saddened to learn of the passing of former manager Len Ashurst.
“Our thoughts are with Len’s family and friends at this difficult time.”
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Ashurst ended his playing career at Hartlepool, whom he also later managed, and also had managerial spells at Gillingham, Sheffield Wednesday and Cardiff.