Jimmy Smith, as former Chelsea winger has reportedly passed away.
The Sheffield-born former footballer died aged 91.
His departure was made known via a statement on Chelsea’s official website at the latter part of Friday.
Meanwhile, the announcement of the demise came earlier than the Blues’ encounter with Chesterfield in the FA Cup on Sunday, January 9.
The Club therefore, commiserated with deceased’ survivors including family and friends.
Smith who moved to Stamford Bridge from the Army in 1951 was handed a debut in Chelsea’ 2-1 victory over fulham in September of the same year.
His spell at Chelsea lasted for two years, after which he completed move to Leyton Orient.
Chelsea’ statement reads in part, “Chelsea Football Club is greatly saddened to learn of the passing of our former player Jimmy Smith at the age of 91. We send our deepest condolences to his family and friends.”
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“A Sheffield-born winger, Jimmy joined Chelsea from the army in 1951 and made 23 appearances, scoring three times.”
“His debut came in a local derby at Stamford Bridge in September 1951 when we beat Fulham 2-1, with Jimmy joined in the attack that day by goalscorers Roy Bentley and namesake Bobby Smith.”
The club added: “He scored himself in his second and third games, another 2-1 home victory, this time against Huddersfield, and an away 3-5 loss at Wolves.”
“His final appearance in the first team came in October 1953. He moved on to Leyton Orient in May 1955 but was always immensely proud of representing the Blues.”
“Jimmy was believed to have been Chelsea’s oldest surviving former player; that honour now falls to Len Casey.”
