Ex-Man Utd keeper & hero of 1958 Munich air disaster Harry Gregg dies aged 87

Former Manchester United and Northern Ireland goalkeeper Harry Gregg has died at the age of 87.

Gregg was part of United's 'Busby Babes' and has been referred to as the 'Hero of Munich' for rescuing survivors of the Munich air disaster, which killed eight of his team-mates in 1958.

He had joined United from Doncaster in 1957 for £23,000, which at the time was a world-record fee for a goalkeeper, and ended up making 247 appearances for the club.

He also won 25 caps for Northern Ireland, playing at the 1958 World Cup - where he was named goalkeeper of the tournament.

"It is with great sorrow that we inform of the death of Manchester United and Northern Ireland legend Harry Gregg, OBE," a message on the Harry Gregg Foundation Facebook page said.

"Harry passed away peacefully in hospital surrounded by his loving family.

"The Gregg family would like to thank the medical staff at Causeway Hospital for their wonderful dedication to Harry over his last few weeks. To everyone who has called, visited or sent well wishes we thank you for the love and respect shown to Harry and the family.

"Details of his funeral arrangement will be issued in the next few days.

"We would ask that the privacy of the family is respected at this difficult time.

"Never to be forgotten!"