Football World Remembers Chris Nicholl: A Stalwart on the Field, a Legend in Memory

Chris Nicholl former Northern Ireland, Southampton and Aston Villa defender has passed away at the age of 77. The English-born footballer who won 51 caps for Northern Ireland played a key role in their 1982 World Cup journey. Nicholl also had a successful club career notably with Aston Villa and Southampton winning two League Cups with Villa.

After retiring as a player, he managed Southampton and later served as Walsall boss. Nicholl’s struggle with dementia possibly linked to heading balls during his playing career was highlighted in a 2017 BBC documentary. Tributes have poured in from football organizations and former teammates.