Joe Kinnear dies aged 77: Former Newcastle & Wimbledon boss passes away after nine-year battle with dementia

Kinnear's family has announced the death of the former manager, at the age of 77, after a lengthy health battle. Per BBC Sport, he was diagnosed with dementia in 2015.

In a short statement, they confirmed: "We are sad to announce that Joe passed away peacefully this afternoon surrounded by his family."

During a lengthy playing career as a defender, Kinnear played for Spurs and Brighton and Hove Albion, and also won 26 caps for the Republic of Ireland. As a player, he won the FA Cup, the League Cup, twice, and the UEFA Cup while playing for Tottenham. He retired in 1977 after a knee injury.

He enjoyed a varied managerial career, stepping into the dugout to take charge of India, Nepal, Doncaster Rovers, Wimbledon, Luton Town and Nottingham Forest, as well as Newcastle, where he both managed and served as a director of football.

He left the game in 2014, and was diagnosed with dementia the following year.

A number of Kinnear's former clubs and contemporaries have expressed their condolences.

Newcastle wrote on X: "Newcastle United is saddened to learn of the passing of Joe Kinnear at the age of 77. Joe worked at the club as both Manager and Director of Football. The thoughts of everyone at NUFC are with Joe’s family and friends at this difficult time."

Luton posted a similar message, while AFC Wimbledon, who he guided to an unlikely sixth-place Premier League finish in 1993-94, wrote: "Everyone connected with Wimbledon was deeply saddened to hear the news that our former manager, Joe Kinnear, has passed away. A true legend of the Club, Joe gave us some amazing memories that we treasure. Our deepest condolences go to his family at this difficult time"