Billy Bingham tributes paid following death of legendary Northern Ireland manager
rip billy #ripbilly
Tributes have been paid to legendary former Northern Ireland manager Billy Bingham following his death at the age of 90.
Bingham played at the 1958 World Cup in Sweden but is best known for managing his country at successive World Cups in 1982 and ’86.
He famously led Northern Ireland to the second group stage of the 1982 tournament after beating hosts Spain 1-0 with a goal from Gerry Armstrong in Valencia.
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Bingham went on to describe that win – arguably the most famous in the history of the national team – as “slaying the Spanish bull in its own bull ring”.
Billy Hamilton, who set up Armstrong’s iconic winning goal against the Spanish in 1982, later hailed Bingham for helping inspire Northern Ireland to the finals 40 years ago.
“Before the 1982 World Cup other teams were going off to exotic climes for their pre-tournament training camps,” he said.
“Billy took us to Brighton of all places but it proved a masterstroke because Brighton ended up being in the middle of a heatwave.
“He ran us really hard during the day but afterwards would let us go out and have a few pints together.
“Those bonding exercises were brilliant for team morale. Going to the World Cup was a dream for all of us and Bingy was the inspiration behind it all.”
Hailing from Bloomfield, Bingham played for a number of clubs including Glentoran, Sunderland, Luton, Everton and Port Vale.
His managerial career also took in spells at Southport, Plymouth, Linfield, Greece, Everton, PAOK, Mansfield and Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia.
Paying tribute to Bingham, former club Glentoran tweeted: “Everyone at Glentoran is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Billy Bingham.
“The thoughts and prayers of everyone at the club go out to Billy’s family and friends at this time.”
One Northern Ireland fan added: “Sad news about Billy Bingham, our greatest international manager of all time. Thank you for the memories.”
Another tweeted: “Sad news about the passing of Billy Bingham. Two World Cup finals tournaments 82 and 86. Gave us all some brilliant memories. Also played for my local team Glentoran 1948 -1950. RIP Billy.”
Chris said: “Billy Bingham was the single most important figure in the history of Northern Irish football. Hopefully a fitting tribute will be in place on Sunday. RIP Billy.”
Ulster Unionist representative Danny Kennedy said: “Really sorry to hear of the passing of Billy Bingham – a legend both as a player and manager. Sincere sympathy to his family and friends.”
Bingham managed Northern Ireland over two spells as manager – between 1967 to 1971 and 1980 to 1993 – winning 32 and drawing 31 of his 98 games at the helm.
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