Former Everton physio John Clinkard has died at the age of 71.
Clinkard joined the ranks at Goodison Park in October 1981, just months into Howard Kendall’s first spell as manager, as Jim McGregor’s replacement.
He spent seven years with the Blues, coinciding with a spell in which the club won two league titles, an FA Cup and the European Cup Winners’ Cup.
Nicknamed ‘Magnum’ due to his striking resemblance to Tom Selleck’s detective character, Clinkard left Merseyside in 1988 to join Oxford United.
He also had spells at Fulham, Wimbledon and Didcot Town, who confirmed his passing early on Friday, while running his own physio clinic in Abingdon.
Everton said they were deeply saddened by the death of the ‘immensely popular’ former backroom staff member following his battle with cancer.
Club legend Peter Reid said: “I am devastated to hear of Clinks’ passing.
“What a man! All the players loved him and trusted him completely when he was with us.
“He was a brilliant character and I’ll always remember him with great affection.
“My thoughts are with Steph and all his family.”
Reid’s teammate and captain during that success-laden spell Kevin Ratcliffe also paid tribute to a man who he hailed as ‘a ‘great part of the squad’.
Academy graduate Ian Marshall added: “Just hearing John Clinkard, aka Magnum, one of the best physiotherapists I ever worked with, has passed away.
“Not seen him in years but to say I’m gutted is an understatement
“RIP Clinks.”