Ian ‘Chico’ Hamilton dead at 73: Chelsea’s youngest ever player and goalscorer dies as tributes pour in

CHELSEA'S youngest ever player and goalscorer Ian "Chico" Hamilton has died aged 73.

The football world paid tribute to the midfielder, who was given his nickname after the famous American jazz drummer.

Hamilton started his career with Chelsea in 1966 and became the Blues' youngest ever player and goalscorer at 16 years, 138 days.

He scored against Tottenham on his debut and earned comparisons to the legendary Jimmy Greaves.

But he only played four more league games for the Blues before moving to Southend.

Chico's longest spell was with Aston Villa, for whom he played 208 games, winning the League Cup in 1975.

He also played for Sheffield United before moving to America.

In retirement, Hamilton remained in the States and spent 17 years as a coach at Thomas Worthington High School in Ohio.

Hamilton's death was confirmed by the Blades on social media.

A Blades statement read: "All at Sheffield United are saddened to have been informed former player Ian 'Chico' Hamilton has passed away, aged 73.

"Chico began his career at Chelsea under Tommy Docherty and became their youngest League player and goalscorer when he netted on debut aged just 16 years and 138 days against Tottenham.

"After just four appearances for the Stamford Bridge club, he moved to Southend United but Docherty, now manager at Aston Villa, came calling again and signed him in 1969.

"At Villa, Chico won a Third Division title in 1972 and played in two League Cup finals in 1971 and 1975. In the '71 final, Villa lost 2-0 to Spurs but in '75 they tasted success after defeating Norwich 1-0.

"After playing over 200 games for Villa in seven seasons, he joined the Blades in 1976, signed by then boss Jimmy Sirrel.

"He played 73 times for United in all competitions, scoring 15 goals, but played during a period of turbulence both on and off the pitch at Bramall Lane.

"He departed in 1978 and spent five seasons in the North American Soccer League playing for the likes of Minnesota Kicks and San Jose Earthquakes.

"After his retirement, he did return to the Sheffield area for a time and worked for Rotherham United in a community role.

"The thoughts of all at Bramall Lane go out to his family and friends at this sad time."