Former Chelsea and Middlesbrough manager John Neal has died at the age of 82.
Neal started his managerial career at Wrexham in 1968, helping the Dragons up into the Third Division and also reaching an FA Cup quarter-final before joining Boro in 1977.
Born in County Durham, Neal left for Chelsea four years later and guided the Blues to the Second Division title in 1984 before leading them to a sixth-placed finish in the top flight.
He was forced to retire after the 1984-85 season, though, due to ill health.
Chelsea Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of our former manager John Neal... http://t.co/x6gcZ86FYb pic.twitter.com/ZstsMljEMp
— Chelsea FC (@chelseafc) November 24, 2014
A club statement from Chelsea read: "Chelsea Football Club is deeply saddened by the passing of John Neal, one of the most significant and loved managers in our history. The club sends our deepest condolences to John's family and friends.
"John will always be remembered at Chelsea for turning the team around from our very lowest point."
Neal, who later served on Chelsea's board of directors, played professionally for Hull City, Swindon Town, Aston Villa and Southend United.
Pascal Lemesre
