“An integral part of our history and rise to the forefront of European football, Jim was simply a titan of Dundee United folklore, cherished by the United family the world over.

“He will be sorely missed by us all. In remembrance of Jim, the flags at Tannadice will fly at half-mast.”

McLean also played for and coached at United’s local rivals Dundee, who tweeted: “All at Dundee Football Club were saddened to learn of the death of former player Jim McLean this evening.”

Together with Sir Alex Ferguson at Aberdeen, McLean helped shake up Scottish football in the 1980s as the ‘New Firm’ challenged the hegemony of Celtic and Rangers.

McLean spent 22 years as United boss from 1971, leading them to two League Cup trophies in 1980 and 1981 as well as two more finals, and they were runners-up in the Scottish Cup six times under his charge.

Renowned for his tactical acumen and strict discipline, he also made them a force in Europe, reaching the European Cup semi-finals in 1984 and the UEFA Cup final in 1987, beating Barcelona at home and away on their way to the latter.

A statement from McLean’s family, published on United’s website, read: “Jim was a much-loved husband, father, brother, uncle and father-in-law, and we will all sadly miss him.

“His remarkable six-decade career made him a true legend not only at Dundee United, but across the world of football.

“Jim’s achievements in leading Dundee United to the Scottish Premier League title in 1983 and to the semi-final of the following season’s European Cup are unlikely ever to be repeated.

“This is a very sad day for our family, but we will be eternally proud of Jim. We would ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time for our family.”

Another of McLean’s former clubs, Hamilton, also paid tribute.

The club wrote on Twitter: “We are very saddened to hear of the death of former striker Jim McLean, aged 83, today.

“Renowned as legendary Manager at Dundee Utd, he hails from Ashgill and was a prolific scorer with us 1956-61, before moving to Clyde. Condolences with family and friends at this time.”

The Scottish Football Association said it was “saddened” to hear of the news.

A brief statement added: “Jim will be remembered as a pioneering manager who led @DundeeUnitedFC to domestic and European acclaim. He also served as assistant to former Scotland manager Jock Stein, including at World Cup 1982.”

Kilmarnock added: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of our former player, Jim McLean. Our thoughts are with his family and all those at Dundee United.”