Larry Lloyd, former Nottingham Forest and Liverpool defender, dies aged 75

Nottingham Forest have paid tribute to the double European Cup winner Larry Lloyd, who has died at the age of 75.

Lloyd, who also won the First Division title and Uefa Cup with Liverpool, was a key player in the Forest side that won the league in 1978 and European Cup in 1979 and 1980 under Brian Clough. The Bristol-born defender won four caps for England, too, and went on to manage Wigan and Notts County following the end of his hugely successful playing career.

“We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Larry Lloyd,” said Forest in a statement. “Part of the Miracle Men, Larry was an integral player in the Forest side that memorably won back-to-back European Cups in 1979 and 1980, making 218 appearances for the club in total. We send our condolences to Larry’s friends and family at this truly sad time. Rest in peace, Larry.”

The Forest manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, in his press conference to preview the game against Crystal Palace, said: “He was one of the miracle men, I’ve been told. Our feelings are with his family. It’s a sad moment. To win two European competitions in a row is very difficult so that’s why he’s so honoured for us, we’re very proud. It’s big, big history.”

Lloyd began his career with Bristol Rovers before being signed by the Liverpool manager Bill Shankly for £50,000 in 1969. Liverpool won the league and Uefa Cup double in 1973, with Lloyd playing in every game that season.

Paying tribute to Lloyd, Liverpool wrote: “We are deeply saddened by the passing of former defender Larry Lloyd, aged 75. The thoughts of everyone at the club are with Larry’s family and friends.”

After two years at Coventry, Lloyd moved to the City Ground in a £60,000 deal and went on to form a vital centre-back partnership with Kenny Burns as Forest beat Malmö in the European Cup final in 1979. They retained the trophy a year later against Kevin Keegan’s Hamburg.