FORMER Chris Garland, a former Bristol City and Chelsea forward, died at the age of 74.
After a protracted illness, the former forward died.
Garland spent five years at Ashton Gate, before leaving for Chelsea in 1971 for £100,000.
He went on to play 31 times in 114 appearances for the Blues over four seasons, being described on their official website as a “penetrating, hard-working and unselfish attacker.”
Following the sad news of their former striker’s passing, Chelsea wrote: “We send our deepest condolences to Chris’ family and friends.”
While Bristol City have also paid tribute.
They tweeted: “The club are deeply saddened by the passing of Chris Garland at the age of 74.
“Rest in Peace to a Bristol City legend.”
Following Chelsea’s relegation in 1975, Garland moved to Leicester City in a £95k deal, staying in the top flight in the process.
Garland stayed at Ashton Gate for another seven seasons before retiring in 1983.
In total, he appeared in 248 games for City, scoring 54 goals.
He was one of just two players for City, along with Tom Ritchie, to have played in all four Football League divisions.
Garland was also selected to represent England at the Under-23 level.
He went on to manage non-league Somerset side Minehead after retiring, and he also coached at Yeovil.
Garland disclosed in 1992 that he had recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.
According to Chelsea’s official website, Blues veteran Peter Osgood was one of the first people he told about his diagnosis.
He played for the Foxes for two years before returning to hometown club Bristol City for £110k.
Jess Thirlby, her daughter, is the head coach of the England netball team, having previously played for her country.
Garland remarried in 2004 after separating from Patricia after 25 years of marriage. He married partner Ruth.
