Alex Cropley, a cherished figure in Scottish football, has passed away at the age of 75. Known for his time with Hibernian FC, Cropley was a vital part of the iconic ‘Turnbull’s Tornadoes’ side that won the League Cup in 1972. He spent six seasons with Hibs, making 199 appearances and scoring 49 goals, solidifying his place in the hearts of fans.
His contributions to the sport extended beyond Hibernian, as he also played for Arsenal and Aston Villa, joining Arsenal for £150,000 in December 1974. During his tenure at Arsenal, he scored 7 goals in 30 First Division games. Cropley later won the League Cup with Aston Villa in 1977, showcasing his talent on multiple stages.
In addition to his club success, Cropley represented Scotland, earning 2 caps and playing in European Championship victories over Portugal and Belgium in late 1971. His career, however, was not without challenges; he suffered a broken ankle in a challenge by Alex Ferguson, which impacted his playing time.
Hibernian FC expressed their sorrow in a statement, saying, “Everyone at Hibernian FC is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Hibs legend Alex Cropley, at the age of 75.” The club highlighted his legacy and the joy he brought to fans during his time on the pitch.
Aston Villa also paid tribute, noting, “But for injury, he might easily have been a member of the League Championship-winning squad of 1980/81,” reflecting on the potential that was cut short by injury.
In 2017, Cropley was inducted into the Hibernian FC Hall of Fame, a testament to his enduring impact on the club and its supporters. His diagnosis of dementia in 2020 brought further attention to the challenges faced by former athletes, with advocates like Dawn Astle speaking out about the condition’s effects on players.
As the football community mourns his loss, many will remember Cropley not just for his achievements on the field but for the spirit he brought to the game. His memorable goal in the ‘Greatest game in History’ on New Year’s Day 1973 remains a highlight of his career.
As tributes continue to pour in, observers are reflecting on the importance of supporting former players facing health challenges. The legacy of Alex Cropley will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who watched him play and in the stories shared by fans.
Rest in peace, Alex.
