Tributes are pouring in for Hibs legend Alex Edwards who has sadly died aged 78.
Born in Dunfermline on Valentine’s Day in 1946, Edwards talent was first noticed at his hometown team, Dunfermline Athletic where Jock Stein gave him his senior debut at the incredibly young age of 16 years and five days.
This remarkable achievement, making him the second youngest player to feature in a senior Scottish league match, was a testament to his exceptional talent and potential.
Stein gave Edwards a taste of European nights as he played young Edwards in a Fairs Cup clash against the might of Spanish giants Valencia in December 1962.
Despite only being 16 years old, Alex played his part on the right of the Dunfermline attack in destroying the Spaniards, as the Pars ran out 6-2 winners.
With the Pars, he also lifted the Scottish Cup in 1968, beating Hearts 3-1 in the Final.
Alex appeared for the Fife side over 200 times before Eddie Turnbull snatched up the 25-year-old for £13,000 in 1971.
Edwards’s influence was undeniable as he played a key part in both goals that led Hibs to a 2-1 victory over Celtic in the League Cup Final at Hampden.
Months later, he would play a huge role in one of Hibs most memorable victories, beating Hearts 7-0 in the Edinburgh Derby at Tynecastle on New Year’s Day, 1973.
That result put Hibs at the top of the league and many thought they were favourites to win the title however five days later in a 1-0 victory over East Fife John Brownlie suffered a broken leg and Edwards was booked for throwing the ball away having been subjected to continual fouling. He was suspended for an incredible 56 days which put paid to Hibs title hopes.
The midfielder was also involved in famous European nights including a 6-1 victory over Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon at Easter Road and scoring against Liverpool at Anfield.
After 215 appearances for the Club, notching 12 goals, Edwards finished his career with Arbroath.
He will be remembered not only as a brilliant footballer and a ferocious competitor but also as one of the finest players never to be capped by Scotland.
Earlier this year he was inducted into the Hibernian Hall of Fame.
A statement on the club’s website said: “Hibernian Football Club extend our deepest condolences to his family and loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.
“Rest in peace, Mickey. To the angels high above.”
In addition, many fans have taken to social media to share their memories and offer their condolences.
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
