Celtic legend Harry Hood has died at the age of 74 following a battle with cancer.

The club confirmed the news on Sunday morning and paid tribute to the striker who wore the Hoops jersey for seven years in the 60s and 70s.

The former footballer, who was also a successful businessman, passed away at home in Bothwell, Lanarkshire, surrounded by his family.

The sad news comes just weeks after the death of former team mates and Lisbon Lions Billy McNeill and Stevie Chalmers.

A statement published on the Celtic FC website stated: "Everyone at Celtic is saddened at the death of Harry Hood, who has passed away at the age of 74.

"A Celtic great, Harry made 310 appearances for the Hoops between 1969 and ’76, scoring a very impressive 123 goals."

The Herald: Harry Hood Harry Hood

The club added: "Hood deserves his place in Celtic folklore. He wasn’t a Lisbon Lion or a Quality Street Kid, but he fitted in perfectly at Celtic.

"He had the X-Factor that helped the team win games and in many ways he was the classic Celtic player. 

"The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Celtic are with Harry's family and friends at this extremely sad time."

As well as Celtic, Mr Hood played for Clyde, Sunderland, Motherwell, Queen of the South and San Antonio Thunder.

Clyde FC paid tribute in a statement, saying: "Everyone at the club is saddened to learn of the death of Clyde Hall of Fame member, Harry Hood.

"Harry featured in 197 matches for Clyde in the 60s, scoring an outstanding total of 96 goals.

"Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Mr Hood, a father of three and grandfather of six, also went on to own a string of pubs and restaurants in the Glasgow area.

The business, Lisini Pub Company, is still run by the footballer's family.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the family said: "With profound sadness the Hood family announce the passing of Harry Hood at 6:30am on May 26th, 2019, our loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather and friend to all whose lives he touched.

"Harry passed away peacefully surrounded by family at home in Bothwell, He was 74.

"Harry had fought bravely against cancer that afflicts far too many for 5 years.

"The family would like to thank Marie Curie and the late Doctor Gerry Murphy for their support throughout this time.

"Beloved husband to Kathleen and loving father to Lisa, Siobhan and Nicholas.

"After a glittering football career Harry Hood retired to become a giant of the licenced trade, being honoured with a Lifetime Achievement award from both The Dram and The Scottish Entertainment Awards.

"Harry leaves six beloved grandchildren and a legacy that will live on for years to come."