Arsenal have announced the death of club legend Peter Simpson at the age of 81, prompting an outpouring of tributes from supporters who remember him as one of the heroes of the club's historic double-winning side.
The Gunners great was a central figure in the team that captured both the First Division title and the FA Cup in the 1970-71 season.
Simpson made 478 appearances for Arsenal during a distinguished 13-year spell in north London, making him the club's 10th highest appearance-maker of all time.
Arsenal confirmed the sad news in a statement on Wednesday.
"Everyone at Arsenal is sad to learn that Peter Simpson has died, aged 81," the club said.
"Peter was a major part of the 1970-71 Double-winning squad, making 478 appearances during his time at the club.
"All of us are thinking of his loved ones at this time.
"Rest in peace, Peter."
Arsenal have announced the death of club legend Peter Simpson at the age of 81, prompting an outpouring of tributes from supporters who remember him as one of the heroes of the club's historic double-winning side
|PA
Simpson's story at Arsenal began in humble fashion.
He first joined the club on the ground staff before signing as an apprentice in 1961, eventually developing into one of the most dependable defenders of his generation.
Comfortable across the back line, Simpson became a mainstay of the side throughout the 1960s and early 1970s.
His finest hour came during the unforgettable 1970-71 campaign, when Arsenal secured the league title before beating Liverpool in the FA Cup final to complete the first double in the club's history.
Peter Simpson established himself as an Arsenal icon during his playing days
|GETTY
One of the defining moments of that title triumph came at White Hart Lane against Tottenham Hotspur.
With Arsenal protecting a 1-0 lead, Simpson made a vital late block from Cyril Knowles to help preserve the victory that clinched the championship.
Despite his consistency and longevity, Simpson never earned a senior cap for England national football team.
He was named in several squads by World Cup-winning manager Alf Ramsey, but did not make an appearance.
After leaving Arsenal, Simpson had a spell in the United States with New England Tea Men before ending his career with Hendon in 1981.
Supporters quickly paid tribute to the former defender on social media.
One fan wrote: "The League Championship in May 1971. We were winning 1-0 at Spurs, but a score draw would hand the title to Leeds.
"In the last few moments of the match Spurs' Cyril Knowles shot at our goal. Peter Simpson's shin flicked the ball over the bar. And the rest is history. RIP Peter."
Another said: "Very sad news. Saw him many times in the back four at Highbury in the 70-71 season.
"One of my favourite players and I even had the number 6 on a 71 Cup Final replica shirt."
A third supporter wrote: "Gutted. One of my all-time heroes. RIP."
And another added: "RIP to this legend. Now it's a must we do the Double this season."