Everyone at Hereford FC is saddened to hear the news that former Hereford United manager, John Newman, has passed away at the age of 91.

Newman, who was born in Hereford, managed his home-town club between 1983 and 1987, and came agonisingly close to guiding the Bulls to promotion from the Fourth Division during the 1984-85 season.

In the same season, he took charge of the Bulls in two memorable FA Cup ties against First Division Arsenal, securing a 1-1 draw at Edgar Street in a game that his team deserved to win, before eventually succumbing 7-2 in a replay at Highbury.

In a terrific career, Newman played as a central defender for Birmingham City, Leicester City, Plymouth Argyle (where he played more than 300 games) and Exeter City, before turning his hand to management at Exeter, Grimsby Town, Derby County and then Hereford United.

Speaking about John Newman, Hereford FC Chairman, Chris Ammonds, said:

“This is such sad news and while I never had the opportunity to meet John, I feel like I know him well as he is the first Hereford United manager I remember. Like many fans of my generation, it was his team of the mid-80s that made me fall in love with football at Edgar Street.

“The team that took on Arsenal and just missed out on promotion was one of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure of watching pull on a Bulls shirt, with players like Jimmy Harvey, John Delve and Mel Pejic, and local lads Chris Price, Stewart Phillips and Steve Emery to the fore.

“John will never be forgotten by football fans in Hereford as he was a true gentleman and a keen supporter of all our local clubs, and the thoughts of everyone associated with Hereford FC are with John’s family and friends at this sad time.”