FORMER Newcastle, Hartlepool and Darlington centre-half Steve Carney has died at the age of 55.

Able to operate in midfield or defence, Wallsend-born Carney joined the Magpies from Blyth Spartans in 1979 and went on to make 149 appearances for the Tynesiders, scoring one goal.

He left St James' Park for Darlington in 1985 and also played for Hartlepool as well as a number of North-East non league sides.

A statement on Newcastle's official website said: ''The club is saddened to hear of Steve's death and our thoughts are with his family and friends.''