Fergus Slattery: Ireland and the Lions great has passed away at the age of 77

Former Ireland and British and Irish Lions winger Fergus Slattery has died at the age of 77, club Blackrock College has announced.

Regarded as one of Ireland’s greatest ever players, Slattery led the team to 61 caps between 1970 and 1984.

Slattery helped Ireland win the treble in 1982 and 1985 and represented the Lions on the 1971 and 1974 tours of New Zealand and South Africa.

“Blackrock College RFC bows its head with gratitude, pride and sadness as we remember one of our greatest sons,” read a statement from Blackrock.

“There are players who wear the shirt and there are players who define it. Fergus defined ours.

“For those who have watched him play, he represents rugby at its purest.

“Extraordinary intelligence, courage and an open side of relentless competitiveness always seem to come first where the competition is fiercest.”

Blackrock added that Slattery was played “with ferocity and grace, but without ego or theatrics”.

“Modest in his demeanor, yet towering in his achievements, Fergus never sought acclaim, but earned it from teammates, opponents, fans and generations of young rugby players who dreamed of following in his footsteps.”

Irish Rugby Football Union (IRFU) president John O’Driscoll Slattery described him as “a giant of Irish rugby who epitomized excellence in his time”.

O’Driscoll added: “His leadership, talent and unwavering commitment to the jersey set standards that will continue to inspire generations of players.

“Off the field, he carries himself with humility and integrity, exemplifying the best values ​​of our game.”