Jimmy Rimmer dies aged 78 as tributes paid to ex-Man Utd, Arsenal and Aston Villa icon

Jimmy Rimmer, the former Manchester United and Aston Villa goalkeeper, has died at the age of 78 as tributes are paid to the European Cup winner.

The shotstopper was twice part of sides that ruled the Europe having come through the youth system at United. He was on the bench for their triumph in the 1968 European Cup final over Benfica.

He moved to Villa in 1977, and that would see him enjoy the most successful period of his career. He made 229 league appearances for the Midlands outfit, and also played in every match of their European Cup-winning campaign in 1982. He was subbed off nine minutes into the final against Bayern Munich.

It was during his three year spell with Arsenal that he made his solitary appearance for his national team, playing for England in a friendly against Italy.

Aston Villa club paid tribute to the legendary figure as a statement read: "Aston Villa is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of European Cup winner Jimmy Rimmer, who has died at the age of 78. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Jimmy's family and friends at this incredibly difficult time.

"Rimmer was one of the finest goalkeepers of his generation, and arguably one of the unluckiest when it came to big occasions. Despite collecting two European Cup winner’s medals, he wasn’t on the pitch at the end of either final."

His former United team-mate, Alex Stepney, said on social media: "Such sad news to hear Jimmy Rimmer has passed away, rest in peace and lots of love to Jimmy's family x".

Rimmer also had a three-year stint with Swansea City before fleeting spells with Hamrun Spartans in Malta and Luton Town, both in 1986.

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