Cork double legend Teddy McCarthy dies aged 57

Teddy McCarthy, the former Cork dual star, has died suddenly at the age of 57.

He was the first and only player in the history of the GAA to win All-Ireland titles in hurling and football in the same year, when Cork won the double in 1990.

The Sarsfields and Glanmire club man enjoyed an 11-year inter-county career with the Rebels, becoming a regular starter in both sides by 1987. Remarkably, he won his first All-Ireland title on his hurling championship debut as he was part of the Cork side that defeated Galway in the 1986 final.

McCarthy would win split four All-Irelands evenly between both codes, as well as winning nine Munster titles (six football, three hurling) and a football All-Star in 1989. That same year he was crowned the Texaco Footballer of the Year as the key figure in Cork's Sam Maguire success.

It will be his exploits in 1990, however, that he will be forever remembered.

He picked off three points from midfield in the hurling decider as Cork rallied from six points down at the break to defeat Galway 5-15 to 2-21, before returning to GAA HQ a fortnight later at wing-forward for the footballers as the Rebels completed the double with a two-point victory over Meath.

Glanmire GAA club paid tribute to McCarthy.

"The saddest news has rocked our club and community in the last hour, the passing of the much loved, Teddy McCarthy

"We extend our deepest condolences Oonagh, sons Cian and Niall, daughter Sinead and family and friends.

"May he rest in peace. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam dílis."

Sarsfields hurling club also paid their respects to the GAA legend.

"Very, very sad day for the club as our vice chairman and legend Teddy McCarthy has passed away."