Hibernian were saddened to learn today of the passing of our former manager and player Willie MacFarlane.

It has often been said by the members of the 'Famous Five' Hibernian forward line that they would never have looked as good as they did had it not been for the defensive line they had behind them - and Willie was one of those players. A local Leith boy and team-mate of the late Tommy Younger at Hutcheson Vale, both players were signed by the legendary Hibernian manager Hugh Shaw. Willie was a part of the Hibernian side that travelled to Brazil in 1953, playing three matches at the Maracana, and he was also a member of the side that became the first British team to play in European competition.

After making 78 league appearances Willie moved on from Easter Road in 1958 to Raith Rovers, ending his playing career at Morton in 1961. He was not quite ready to quit the game however, and set out on a managerial career with Hawick Royal Albert. In 1968 he stepped up to take charge at Stirling Albion - but he was not to remain there for long as just a year later he returned to Easter Road to take charge of the side. One of his first signings was to become a legend in his own right at Hibernian, Willie bringing to Easter Road his former Stirling Albion charge Erich Shaedler. He was also responsible for bringing Arthur Duncan and Johnny Graham to Hibernian - the latter scoring a hat-trick on his debut.

Willie oversaw the early stages of one of the finest ever Hibernian sides, and indeed it was MacFarlane who switched John Brownlie from playing in central defence to become an attacking full back, a decision that proved to be inspirational. His tenure in charge ended in 1971 by which time he had guided the club back into Europe - included a head-on clash with Bill Shankley's Liverpool. After departing Easter Road Willie set up a bookmakers business in Edinburgh and returned briefly to management at Meadowbank Thistle in 1978.

In recent years Willie, who would have celebrated his 80th Birthday next week, would be seen regularly at Easter Road.

Everyone at Hibernian passes their condolences to Willie's family and friends.