TRIBUTES have been paid to one of the Black Cats’ most prolific strikers who has died of cancer just a fortnight after being diagnosed.

Nick Sharkey, 71, who formed part of the 1964 promotion-winning side, made 117 appearances for the Black Cats scoring 62 goals, five of which famously came in a 7-1 victory over Norwich City at Roker Park in March 1963.

The Scot, who represented his country at schoolboy and Under 23 levels, made his debut with Sunderland at the age of 16.

He left Sunderland to join Leicester City in 1966, and went on to play for Mansfield Town, Hartlepool United and South Shields.

Since retiring from football, he worked in the sales industry and was also an active and popular member of the Sunderland Former Players’ Association.

Paying tribute on the club’s official website, Sunderland AFC’s chief executive Margaret Byrne said: “Everyone at Sunderland AFC is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player Nick Sharkey.

“Nick was a great character and a friend to many at the club, attending games and playing a big part in the Sunderland Former Players Association, and he will be sadly missed.

“Our thoughts are with his wife Joan, family and friends during this difficult time.”

Sunderland AFC legend and club ambassador Jimmy Montgomery added:

“I have great memories of playing with Nick since our youth days at the club. He used to score goals for fun in training, ten or more at a time and he was a great player for us.

“Nick was a great man and we were great friends for years as team-mates and played golf together, as well as attending events through the former players association.

"He was a lovely man and will be sadly missed by everybody who knew him.”