Footballing world 'shocked' and 'devastated' after the passing of Justin Edinburgh

The footballing world has paid tribute to Leyton Orient manager Justin Edinburgh on Saturday after he died at the age of 49 following a cardiac arrest.

Edinburgh had just guided Orient to promotion back to the English Football League after taking over in November 2017.

He was in Madrid last weekend to watch Tottenham as they were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool in the Champions League final.

READ MORE: Leyton Orient manager Justin Edinburgh has died at the age of 49

As a left-back, Edinburgh made his name at Spurs, making more than 250 appearances in a 10-year stay, winning the FA Cup in 1991 and the League Cup in 1999.

"We are deeply saddened and shocked to hear of the passing of Justin Edinburgh," Spurs said.

Edinburgh also played for Portsmouth and Billericay, having started his career at Southend.

As a manager, he had spells at Billericay, Fisher Athletic, Grays Athletic, Rushden and Diamonds, Newport, Gillingham and Northampton before taking over at Orient.

Manchester United legend Gary Neville co-owns Salford City, who finished second behind Orient in the National League this season also shared his condolences.

Leyton Orient players expressed their shock at the news of their manager's death.

Defender Marvin Ekpiteta tweeted: "Lost for words."

And winger James Brophy described him as a ‘wonderful man’.

Former Spurs teammate Darren Anderton said ‘it’s just not fair’.

Leyton Orient Fans' Trust said in a statement: "In his 18 months managing our club, Justin became an Orient legend, building an excellent championship-winning team that regained our place in the Football League.

"Two years ago our club was on the floor. When Justin arrived, the team was still struggling but his shrewd and tenacious management helped turn our performances around and give us a team we could be proud of - one of the most likeable Orient teams we have known.

"In his dedication to the job, and his reaction to achieving promotion, Justin also showed that he instinctively understood what our club is all about and what it means to its fans. He was clearly deeply liked and admired by his players, who owe him a great deal.

"Ultimately though, football pales into total insignificance at a time like this, and our principal thoughts are with his loved ones, to whom we send our very best wishes. He will be greatly missed, on and away from the pitch."

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