Ian Porterfield passes away

It has just been confirmed tonight that Sunderland legend Ian Porterfield has passed away at a hospice in Surrey. He had been suffering from bowel cancer and was recently readmitted to hospital.

Ian Porterfield's goal saw Sunderland beat Leeds 1-0 on 5th May 1973 to win the FA Cup.

Niall Quinn led the tributes on behalf of SAFC, saying "It's a very sad day for the football club. Our immediate thoughts are with Ian's wife Glenda and his family during what is a tremendously difficult time.

"The word 'legend' can be very much over-used in the modern era of football but Ian is what I would call a true legend of the game.

"He is part of what can only be described as an institution in the long and proud history of Sunderland AFC - the famous FA Cup-winning team of 1973.

"His appearances during 10 loyal years at Roker Park, not to mention his winning goal at Wembley, will ensure his name is up there with the likes of Charlie Hurley, Raich Carter and Bobby Gurney."

Everyone at ReadyToGo.net sends their condolences to the Porterfield family.