Worthing FC join tributes to Chelsea goalkeeping great Peter Bonetti

Bonetti and his Chelsea team-mates, pictured in the 1972-73 season / Picture: Getty

Worthing have paid tribute to goalkeeping great Peter Bonetti, who has died at the age of 78.

His death was announced by Chelsea, where he was regarded as one of the club's all-time greats.

Bonetti's path to fame between the sticks began with Worthing FC, who were quick to pay their respects. "Rest in peace Peter Bonetti, who began his career here in Worthing, and has sadly died at the age of 78," said a club statement.

"Peter had an illustrious career, making 729 appearances for Chelsea and winning the World Cup with England. Everyone at Worthing sends our deepest condolences to his family."

A statement from Chelsea said: "Our former goalkeeper had been suffering from long-term illness. All at Chelsea wish to send our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Peter’s family and friends.

"Bonetti was a goalkeeping superstar of the 1960s and 1970s. Small for his position on the pitch but with an aura of glamour, he was technically innovative and incredibly plucky. The Cat, as he was widely known, was the reassuring security among many mavericks in a golden era for Chelsea.

"He was the last line of defence during some of the truly great games. The image of our injured goalie and his superhuman attempts to thwart the opposition in the 1970 FA Cup final replay, 50 years ago this month, is one of the heroic images of that famous match, one that captivated a record TV audience of over 28 million viewers in the UK.

"By then Bonetti was one of the keystones of the Blues side that had emerged under Tommy Docherty’s management but was polished by Dave Sexton. Most of that team, Chelsea fans were proud to say, emerged from the club’s youth scheme."