Former Northern Ireland striker Willie Irvine passes away aged 82.
The Irish FA is saddened to learn of the passing of former Northern Ireland international Willie Irvine.
Born in Carrickfergus, Willie won 23 caps for his country between 1963 and 1972, scoring eight goals. A classic bustling centre forward, he began his career with Linfield before moving to England, where he enjoyed prolific spells with Burnley, Brighton & Hove Albion, and Preston North End, later finishing his league career with Halifax Town.
In the 1965/66 season, Willie finished as the First Division’s top scorer, netting 29 goals for Burnley. Across his time at Turf Moor, he scored 97 goals in 148 appearances, cementing his place as one of the club’s all‑time greats.
For Northern Ireland, he found the net in four consecutive internationals across 1965 and 1966. Among his most memorable goals was one at Wembley against England, as well as an equaliser in a 1-1 draw with Spain in Bilbao during qualifying for the 1964 European Championship.
Football ran in the family - Willie’s brother Bobby was also a Northern Ireland international, as a goalkeeper. The brothers lined out together in three full internationals - a proud achievement for both family and country.
The Irish FA extends its sincere condolences to Willie’s family circle and friends at this difficult time.
