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Jim McLean, Dundee United’s title-winning coach, died at the age of 83.
McLean led United to their only league championship in 1983 after transforming the fortunes of Tayside’s club.
Along with Sir Alex Ferguson in Aberdeen, McLean helped revolutionize Scottish football in the 1980s when the ‘New Firm’ challenged the hegemony of Celtic and Rangers.
McLean spent 22 years as United manager since 1971, leading to two League Cup trophies in 1980 and 1981, as well as two more finals, and they were runners-up in the Scottish Cup five times under his tenure.
Renowned for their tactical acumen and strict discipline, he also made them a force in Europe, reaching the semi-finals of the European Cup in 1984 and the final of the UEFA Cup in 1987, defeating Barcelona at home and away. to the latter.
McLean also played and coached United’s local rivals Dundee, who tweeted: “Everyone at Dundee Football Club was saddened to learn of the death of former player Jim McLean tonight.”
McLean helped revolutionize Scottish football in the 1980s
A statement on the Dundee United website read: “Dundee United are very sad to learn that Jim McLean has passed away.
“An integral part of our history and a rise to the forefront of European football, Jim was simply a titan of Dundee United folklore, cherished by the United family around the world.
“We will all miss him deeply. In memory of Jim, the flags of Tannadice will fly at half mast.”
The club also released a statement from McLean’s family that said: “Jim was a beloved 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 throughout the world of football.
“Jim’s achievements in leading Dundee United to the Scottish Premier League title in 1983 and to the European Cup semi-final the following season are unlikely 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 be respected at this difficult time for our family.”
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