Former Everton, Queens Park Rangers and Luton midfielder Andy King dies

Former Everton, Queens Park Rangers and Luton midfielder Andy King has died from a heart attack aged 58.

King was Milton Keynes Dons' current chief scout but passed away at his home on Wednesday. 

He had joined Everton as a teenager from Luton in 1976 aged 19, scoring the famous derby goal at Anfield two years later that ended the blue half of the city's seven-year wait for a victory over Liverpool.

King then left for QPR in 1980 before returning in 1982 and eventually moving on again in 1984 after 67 goals in 248 appearances for the Goodison club.

He also enjoyed playing stints in Ireland, Holland and Sweden, before turning to management after finishing his playing career back in the north-west with Southport.

King managed Waterford in Ireland before taking over at Mansfield Town, Swindon and Grays Athletic before taking
over as caretaker manager of Northampton following Aidy Boothroyd's departure in late 2013.

He returned to scouting with MK Dons two months later and the newly-promoted Championship club.

A Dons statement said: "Milton Keynes Dons Football Club are devastated to learn that chief scout Andy King has suddenly passed away at the age of 58.

"He passed away suddenly after a heart attack at his home on Wednesday. King, who joined the Dons' backroom staff in 2014, was a hugely respected figure throughout football and a magnificent individual and friend to many at MK Dons - he will be missed greatly.

"The thoughts of everyone at MK Dons are with Andy's wife Barbara, his family and his friends at this extremely sad and difficult time."

An Everton statement said: "Everton Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former midfielder Andy King. The thoughts of everyone at Everton are with Andy’s family and many friends at this sad time."