York City legend Alan Little has sadly passed away, aged 69.

Little was memorably manager of York for a six-year period from 1993 to 1999, having previously worked in a coaching position under various managers at City.

He first arrived to the football club as assistant manager to former boss John Bird, with the duo joining as a package deal in 1988.

Little retained his position despite Bird’s departure from the Minstermen after three years in the role, going on to work as an understudy to John Ward, in a managerial stint that would last two years before the latter made the move to Bristol Rovers, with York in a promotion battle.

After five years of being involved with the club, Little was instated as first-team manager of City in March 1993, with his first match in charge being an incredible 5-1 victory over Barnet, who themselves were also pushing for promotion.

Little’s first season in charge would be a memorable one, as the Minstermen ended their campaign in fourth place and within the play-offs, going on to beat both Bury and Crewe Alexandra in a dramatic penalty shootout at Wembley Stadium, earning promotion to the Division Two.

A first full season at the club almost repeated the same rewards for Little, as York again pushed for promotion, but unfortunately fell short in the play-off semi-finals after a defeat to Stockport County.

Little would go on to enjoy an enjoyable six-year period in North Yorkshire, which included that incredible Coca Cola League Cup second round match at Manchester United.

The cup clash, which took place on September 20, 1995, saw Tony Barras open the scoring before the legendary Paul Barnes bagged a brace, with the Minstermen going on to celebrate a 3-0 victory and one of the most notable wins in the history of the football club.

His time in charge of the club also included a superb League Cup victory over top division outfit Everton the following year.

Little is also known for his vast playing career, which began at Aston Villa in 1993, before a permanent switch came to Southend United.

The midfielder would go on to make 103 appearances with the Shrimpers, before making the move into Yorkshire when joining Barnsley in 1977.

Little would represent Doncaster Rovers, Torquay United, Halifax Town and Hartlepool United, before injury ended his playing career in 1986.

Following his managerial spell with York, Little took the vacant post at Southend, who he had also represented as a player, where he would last one season.

Little then returned to another of his former clubs in Halifax as manager, whilst also having a spell at Hull City as Chief Scout.

Little also did work with the Press after leaving the football club, writing dossier-style reports on the opposition.

York have written a memoriam, and said on the passing of the club legend: “The thoughts of everyone at York City Football Club is with Alan’s family and friends at this sad time.

“May he rest in peace.”

Guy Mowbray said on social media: "A wonderful man. Owe him an awful lot. Thank you for the memories and the education."

A wonderful man. Owe him an awful lot. Thank you for the memories and the education. 🙏💔 https://t.co/cgux8s85JO

Another City icon in the form of Iain Dunn echoed the message, posting: "RIP Alan. A great man and one York City will never forget."

Rodney Rowe, who played under Little from 1997 to 1999, said on Twitter: "RIP Gaffer."