A football legend who was the record appearance holder for a League One club and spent 16 years on their books before coaching for Leeds United has died

Football legend Barry Murphy who was the record appearance holder for League One side Barnsley has died aged 82, sparking a flood of tributes. The defender represented the South Yorkshire side a staggering 569 times during 16 years at Oakwell Stadium.

Inducted into the club's inaugural Hall of Fame in 2018, Murphy was part of the Reds side that won promotion from the Fourth Division in 1968. In April 2022, the club renamed their North Stand in his honour.

In a statement, Barnsley said on X: "We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Barry Murphy, aged 86. An iconic full-back who was our record-appearance holder with 569 games for the Reds. Barry was a true Barnsley legend. We will truly miss you, Barry. Once a Red, Always a Red."

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Born in Consett, County Durham, Murphy joined Barnsley from South Shields in 1962. Nicknamed 'Spud', the defender made his debut in the same year and went on to make history in October 1965, when he became the first Barnsley player to be used as a substitute, in a clash against Doncaster Rovers.

After cementing his place in the first team, Murphy went on to make a consecutive run of 165 league and 17 cup games for the Reds. He was voted Barnsley's player of the year in 1972.

The fullback took on a central defensive role in the latter stages of his career, moving to centre back in 1974–75 under managerial great Jim Iley, when Murphy was also made captain.

In November 1975, aged 35, he was appointed player-coach at Barnsley and was restored to his former right-back role. He was then an ever-present during the 1976–77 season.

He made his final appearance aged 38 in April 1978 against Torquay United. Murphy continued on the club's coaching staff under Allan Clarke and later joined his backroom staff at then top flight side Leeds United in October 1980.

Murphy continued coaching at Leeds United, who were relegated to the old Second Division, until 1984, before retiring from the sport. He later became a regular special guest at Barnsley and was often the host for their charitable events.

In April 2022, the club renamed their North Stand in tribute to their former player.

Speaking at the time, then Barnsley FC chief executive officer, Khaled El-Ahmad said: "As we recognise our alumni on this special day, it is fitting that we pay tribute to arguably our most legendary player – a man who has represented this great club more than anyone else, and who continues to remain such an important part of the matchday experience here at Oakwell.

"There are many incredible individuals who we could have acknowledged with this kind of recognition, but I am sure everyone will agree that Barry Murphy is fully deserving of this honour.

"He is quite possibly the most positive, upbeat person I have met during my time at Barnsley and his legacy here is indelible. The renaming of the Barry Murphy Stand ensures it will live on forever."

Fans paid tribute to Murphy on X, with one writing: "RIP Barry. A true Barnsley legend." Another supporter wrote: "What a true legend. To have the best away end in the EFL named after you still didn't do him justice... Rest easy Barry."