SUNDERLAND legend Charlie Hurley has died aged 87.

Dubbed "The King", the Irishman has been hailed as one of the Black Cats' greatest ever players.

Born in Cork, Ireland in 1936 - Hurley moved to England with his family at seven months old.

He joined Millwall aged 16, and went on to play 110 times for the Lions before joining Sunderland for £20,000 in 1957.

After leaving a strong impression in East London, it was in Wearside that the strapping centre-half would really make his name.

Hurley played for Sunderland for 12 years, representing the Black Cats over 400 times and leaving his mark both on and off the pitch.

Paying tribute to Hurley, Sunderland wrote in a lengthy statement: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charlie Hurley, one of the greatest and most beloved players in the history of Sunderland AFC.

"Named the Club’s Player of the Century in 1979, The King was a giant in the story of SAFC and his legacy on Wearside will forever endure.

"A man mountain on the pitch and a gentleman off it, Charlie’s aura and charisma ensured that he was adored and idolised by supporters and team-mates alike."

Hurley went on to represent the country of his birth, earning 40 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

Following Sunderland's promotion to the First Division in 1963-64, Hurley came second to Bobby Moore for FWA Footballer of the Year.

After 402 appearances and three Sunderland Player of the Year accolades in 12 years, Hurley left Wearside to join Bolton in 1969.