A HOST of footballing greats gathered for the funeral of Burnley legend John Connelly this morning.

Connelly passed away on October 25 at the age of 74 and his funeral took place at St Mary’s Church in Yorkshire Street, Burnley.

He played for Burnley, Manchester United, Blackburn Rovers, Bury and England during a glittering career.

Among those present to pay their respects were Sir Bobby Charlton, Nobby Stiles and Roger Hunt, who were joined by Connelly in the England squad that won the World Cup in 1966.

Fellow Burnley greats Jimmy McIlroy, Willie Irvine, Andy Lochhead and Jimmy Robson were among the Clarets contingent, while Blackburn Rovers legend Bryan Douglas and revered Manchester United forward Denis Law were also in attendance together with many more former professionals.

The former players walked from Turf Moor to the church behind the funeral cortege, with supporters lining the street outside the ground.