Former Republic of Ireland manager and player Mick Meagan has died at the age of 88 after losing his battle with a short illness.
Capped 17 times as a player, Mick Meagan was the first ever Ireland manager from 1969 to 1971 when the selection committee process for the Irish team was ended.
As well as winning the English League title with Everton, Mick played with Drogheda, Bray Wanderers and Shamrock Rovers in the League of Ireland and went on to manage both Drogheda and Shamrock Rovers.
FAI President Gerry McAnaney said, “We have lost a truly great Irish football man with Mick’s passing."
“Mick was a history maker with our international team, he contributed so much to Everton, Huddersfield Town and Halifax Town in England and across the League of Ireland during his time as a player and a manager.
"Our thoughts are with all the Meagan family and their many friends at this difficult time. At dheis De go raibh a hanam.”
His former club Everton also released a similar statement on their website
Mick Meagan died this morning, at 88. At Everton for 12 years, he was a valued member of the 62/63 title-winning team. A proud @FAIreland player & manager - he also played for @htafc @FCHTOnline @DroghedaUnited etc. A top footballer & a lovely man. He’ll be missed by all 💙💚 pic.twitter.com/MU1nyYEUCk
— Everton FC Heritage Society (@EvertonHeritage) November 27, 2022
"Everyone at Everton Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of Mick Meagan at the age of 88," said the Merseyside club."
"The former Blues defender, who made 177 appearances and scored one goal during a 14-year stint at the Club, passed away on Sunday (27 November) after a long battle with illness."
"Meagan grew up in Dublin, Ireland, and, after appearing in a match against a Liverpool district team in his hometown, he was signed by Everton in 1952."
"He was part of the side that secured the league title in 1962/63 and also won the Charity Shield the same year."
"After retiring from playing, he became the first manager of the Republic Ireland national side in 1969, with the nation previously using a team of selectors to pick the team."
Bray Wanderers also thanked Meagan for his contribution to the club
All at the club - both past and present - are saddened to learn of the passing of Mick Meagan, said the club via Twitter
"He was both a player and manager of the team back in 1973 in the LSL. “We have lost a legend, and an absolute gentleman,” said Head of Football Pat Devlin. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
