Tottenham and England hero Martin Chivers dies aged 80 as tributes pour in

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Tottenham legend and former England striker Martin Chivers has died at the age of 80. Chivers was one of Spurs' greatest-ever players and sits third on their list of all-time top goalscorers. He scored 202 times in 415 appearances and also hit the back of the net on 13 occasions for his country in 24 caps.

Chivers began his career with boyhood club Southampton and helped guide them to the First Division, scoring 30 goals in 39 games in the 1965/66 season. He scored 106 goals in 190 appearances in total before joining Spurs in 1968 for a club record fee of £125,000.

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Chivers helped Spurs to two League Cup wins and also lifted the UEFA Cup in 1972, scoring twice in the 2-1 first-leg win over Wolves. During his time at Spurs, he earned his first call-up to England and went on to make 24 appearances for his country.

He enjoyed a fruitful spell at Swiss club Servette, where he spent two years, before playing for the likes of Norwich and Brighton before retiring at Barnet in 1983.

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After hanging up his boots, Chivers commentated for BBC Radio and was a host at Tottenham matches. In 2007, he was inducted into the club's Hall of Fame.

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Tottenham will wear black armbands in tribute to Chivers for their match at Bournemouth on Wednesday evening.

Tottenham issued a statement confirming his passing, which read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our legendary former striker, Martin Chivers.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Martin’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly sad time. Our players will wear black armbands during this evening’s fixture against AFC Bournemouth. Rest in peace, Martin. One of the all-time greats."

Steve Archibald, who won the FA Cup twice with Spurs, led the tributes to a club great. He wrote on social media: “Watched the great Martin Chivers before I became a pro, was an amazing watch, he was like Rolls Royce, so smooth in his movement, excellent in the air and a great finisher, but on top of all of that he was a really nice guy. Most sincere condolences to all of Martin’s family xxx.”

Former Spurs and Chelsea midfielder Micky Hazard wrote: "Unbelievably sad news, a Legend of Tottenham Hotspur Football Club, a Legend of the Game of football, a Legend full stop. Thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends at this very sad time. Rest in Peace Martin you will be sorely missed."

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