United News | RIP Jimmy Nicholson

We are saddened to learn of the passing of former wing-half Jimmy Nicholson.

The ex-Northern Ireland international has died at the age of 82. Our sincere condolences go to his family and friends.

Author | Pete Shaw

Born in Belfast, Nicholson joined as a trainee in 1958 and made his breakthrough as a teenager during the 1960/61 season, making his senior debut in the Division One match away at Everton in the second game of the campaign. He went on to feature 37 times for Matt Busby’s side that season, scoring five goals, as the club continued its rebuilding after the Munich Air Disaster in 1958.

Nicholson went on to make 68 appearances for the Reds, scoring once more, a late winner in an FA Cup tie against Bolton Wanderers.

A transfer to Huddersfield Town for £7,500 in late 1964 saw him enjoy a lengthy spell with the West Yorkshire club, including captaining the Terriers to the Second Division title in 1969/70, when he was ever-present in the side.

After further distinguished service, he moved to Bury in December 1973 and helped the Shakers secure promotion from the Fourth Division.

In total, Nicholson earned 41 caps for Northern Ireland, scoring in his final international appearance, a 1-1 draw with the Soviet Union.

Our thoughts are with Jimmy’s family and friends at this sad time.