Legendary Dundalk manager Jim McLaughlin dies aged 83
Jim McLaughlin, one of Dundalk FC's and the League of Ireland’s greatest managers, has passed away at the age of 83.
Born on December 22nd, 1940, in Derry, McLaughlin's football journey began with a debut goal for Derry City at just 16, before playing for a number of English sides including Birmingham, Shrewsbury and Swansea.
He returned to manage Dundalk FC in 1974 and transformed the club over nine seasons, leading them to multiple league titles, FAI Cups, and European recognition.
During his time at Oriel Park, the Lilywhites made it to the European Cup last 16 in 1980, losing narrowly to Celtic, and the same round of the European Cup Winners Cup in 1982, losing 3-2 on aggregate to Tottenham Hotspur.
After leaving Dundalk, McLaughlin's managerial success continued with stints at Shamrock Rovers, Derry City, Shelbourne, and Drogheda.
He received an FAI Special Merit Award in 2002 for his exceptional service to domestic football. McLaughlin’s passing marks the end of an era, but his contributions to football will be remembered for generations.
Dundalk Football Club this evening described Jim McLaughlin as "one of Dundalk FC, and League of Ireland's, greatest managers of all time."
League of Ireland director Mark Scanlon commented: "We are all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim McLaughlin. Jim is a true League of Ireland legend who achieved unprecedented success in our game.
"As well as his incredible career in Irish football, Jim was a remarkable person who will be greatly missed by everyone in Irish football. I would like to extend our sympathies on behalf of the League of Ireland and the FAI to Jim's family and friends at this difficult time."
An FAI statement reads: Everyone at the League of Ireland and the Football Association of Ireland is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jim McLaughlin.
A legend of the League of Ireland on and off the field, Jim won a record eight League of Ireland titles as Manager with Dundalk, Shamrock Rovers, Derry City and Shelbourne as well as six FAI Cups. As a player, Jim also won an FAI Cup with Dundalk in a glittering career across Irish football.
On behalf of everyone involved with the League of Ireland and the FAI, we pass on our condolences and deepest sympathies to all of Jim’s family and friends as well as all those mourning his passing at his former clubs where he left such an impression both as a player and manager.