A tribute to Jimmy Gabriel
Southampton Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of former player Jimmy Gabriel, aged 80.
A Scottish international who won the First Division title and an FA Cup in his seven years with Everton, he joined Saints in 1967 for a fee of £42,500.
A versatile player, Jimmy was used in defence, midfield and attack by former manager Ted Bates, who valued his adaptability and ability to read the game.
He was similarly rated by his teammates. Terry Paine MBE described him as “an absolute class act – an outstanding footballer… a very intelligent player [who] loved to play… but, more, he wanted to win.”
Southampton’s record goalscorer, Mick Channon, was similarly enthusiastic, declaring Jimmy “everything I love about a footballer – a stubborn devil [who] wanted to be the best.”
In total, he racked up 224 appearances in five years as a Saint, scoring 27 goals.
The thoughts of everybody at Southampton FC are with Jimmy's family and loved ones.
