'One of our greatest full-backs': Manchester United mourn the death of 1968 European Cup winner Tony Dunne at the age of 78

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Tony Dunne, one of Manchester United's European Cup heroes of 1968, has died at the age of 78.

Left-back Dunne was part of the Red Devils side that famously lifted the trophy for first time after defeating Benfica 4-1 at Wembley.

The Republic of Ireland international spent 13 years at Old Trafford, having been signed by Sir Matt Busby for £5,000 in 1960, also winning two First Division titles and an FA Cup.

Tony Dunne, one of Manchester United's European Cup heroes of 1968, has died aged 78

The success at Wembley ensured United became the first English side to lift the European trophy - and Dunne was also an integral part in the club's resounding success after the Munich Air Disaster in 1958. 

Dunne was forced to wait for regular match action after falling behind Noel Cantwell and Shay Brennan in the pecking order, but he burst onto the scene at Old Trafford after their 1963 FA Cup win over Leicester.  

His most memorable period at the club came alongside revered United trinity George Best, Bobby Charlton and Dennis Law.  

The Republic of Ireland international (left) spent 13 years at Old Trafford after joining in 1960

United announced his death on Twitter, declaring him a great of the club.

A post read: 'One of our greatest-ever full-backs. An integral part of the 1968 European Cup-winning side. A player who made 535 appearances in the red shirt of Manchester United. Our heartfelt condolences go to the loved ones of Tony Dunne. May he rest in peace.'

Shelbourne, the Dublin-based club where he started his career, tweeted: 'Shelbourne FC is saddened to send our condolences to the family and friends of former FAI Cup winning Shels player Tony Dunne after his passing. Tony had a glittering career. RIP Tony.'

Dunne (third from left) watches as Sir Matt Busby holds up the League Championship trophy

Bolton, with whom Dunne won the Second Division title after leaving Old Trafford, said they were 'saddened to learn' of his passing.

Only seven players have bettered Dunne's appearance tally for United, which stands at 535 appearances. He found the net twice. 

His substantial appearance haul has only been beaten by Ryan Giggs, Charlton, Bill Foulkes, Paul Scholes, Gary Neville, Wayne Rooney and Alex Stepney. 

Former United team-mate Brian Kidd has led the touching tributes to Dunne.

Brian Kidd, former team-mate of Dunne and Manchester City coach, has led the tributes

Kidd, now part of Manchester City's coaching staff, netted in United's victory over Benfica - and the 71-year-old has labelled Dunne as 'modest'.

He said: 'His ability goes without saying. We didn't know much about world football in those days but anyone in that era would say he was the best left back in Europe, without doubt.

'He was so modest and had a lot of empathy and he epitomised everything that Sir Matt wanted in a player - humility and modesty. He just got on with it.

'For me, as a young boy I hit it off with him straight away. These days players have all the education and opportunity to be better but in those days it was down to you.

Kidd (pictured celebrating Bobby Charlton's goal) was also part of United's 1968 winning team

'Many a time Tony would say to me after training "let's go out and do some more". I was left-footed like he was and he'd get me to take him on one v one.

'I ended up rooming with him on a United trip to America, New Zealand and Australia. He took me under his wing and the advice and guidance he gave me was just invaluable for me as a young player.'

Dunne leaves behind wife Ann and three children, Tracey, Lorraine and Anthony.