Halifax-born Frank Worthington, one of English football’s great mavericks, has died

Frank Worthington, one of the great mavericks of English football, has died, aged 72.
8th August 1973:  Leicester City striker Frank Worthington.  (Photo by Evening Standard/Getty Images)8th August 1973:  Leicester City striker Frank Worthington.  (Photo by Evening Standard/Getty Images)
8th August 1973: Leicester City striker Frank Worthington. (Photo by Evening Standard/Getty Images)

One of the most skilful players of his generation, the Halifax-born forward had a well-earned reputation for entertaining on the field, and for his excesses off it.

He started his career with Huddersfield Town, making his debut in 1966 and playing in the side which won the Second Division title in 1970, and was still playing in the early 1990s, more than 20 clubs later.

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Perhaps never fully appreciated in this country, his career took him to Ireland, the United States, South Africa and Sweden, but he also played for Leeds United, Guiseley and had a spell as player-coach of his hometown club in 1991-92.

BRIGHTON, UNITED KINGDOM - OCTOBER 8: Bolton  Wanderers striker Frank Worthington looks on before a League Division Two match against Brighton at Goldstone Ground on October 8, 1977, Bolton were promoted to Division One as champions that 1977/78 season. (Photo by Allsport/Getty Images)BRIGHTON, UNITED KINGDOM - OCTOBER 8: Bolton  Wanderers striker Frank Worthington looks on before a League Division Two match against Brighton at Goldstone Ground on October 8, 1977, Bolton were promoted to Division One as champions that 1977/78 season. (Photo by Allsport/Getty Images)
BRIGHTON, UNITED KINGDOM - OCTOBER 8: Bolton Wanderers striker Frank Worthington looks on before a League Division Two match against Brighton at Goldstone Ground on October 8, 1977, Bolton were promoted to Division One as champions that 1977/78 season. (Photo by Allsport/Getty Images)

He tried his hand at management as player-manager of Tranmere Rovers.

Worthington won eight England caps in 1974, scoring twice.

Worthington died peacefully in hospital on Monday, his family have announced.