Aberdeen’s Lord Provost has paid tribute to football legend Denis Law who “always saw himself as an Aberdonian”.
The former Scotland and Manchester United striker has died aged 84.
Law was regarded as royalty in Aberdeen – the city where he was born and grew up – with two separate statues erected in his honour.
He was also given the Freedom of Aberdeen in 2017, with thousands lining the streets to show their affection for Law.
David Cameron, Lord Provost of Aberdeen, says he had the pleasure of meeting Law numerous times.
He told The Press and Journal: “It’s exceedingly sad news.
“It’s probably a couple of years since I last saw Denis.
“He was such a likeable person on any occasion that I had to meet him.
“Denis was such a talent as a footballer but as a man, he was very humble.
“I’m of an age where I remember Denis the wonderful footballer, who was always associated with Aberdeen but never played football for Aberdeen, which is quite incredible.”
The city’s flag is flying at half-mast at Marischal College following the news of his passing.
A floral tribute is also being planned on behalf of the city – which will likely appear on Monday.
Mr Cameron says he has many fond memories of Law in Aberdeen.
He said: “I remember, probably 60 years ago, in the summer when he came back from playing football, he would come to Aberdeen and play golf at Balnagask.
“I worked around the corner at that time as a teenager.
“There was this Jaguar parked there – and that’s when you knew Denis was playing golf.
“The greatest footballer in Europe that year – and there he is, still coming back to Aberdeen.
“We always saw him as an Aberdonian.
“Denis always saw himself as an Aberdonian – and that, itself, is amazing.”
In a post to social media, DMr Cameron said: “It was with great sadness that I learned of the passing of Denis Law CBE – a man who is one of Aberdeen’s greatest sons.
“He was always extremely proud of his Aberdeen roots and in November 2017 he described receiving the Freedom of the City as one of his life’s highlights.”
“He returned to his hometown again in 2021 for the unveiling of his bronze statue which stands proudly in Marischal Square.
“As a mark of respect, the Aberdeen city flag on Broad Street will be flown at half-mast.
“I send my deepest condolences to Denis’ family and friends. Our city has truly lost one of its biggest icons.”
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