Wales international striker John Charles, dubbed the "gentle giant" by Italian fans during five prolific seasons with Juventus, died early on Saturday at the age of 72.

Charles, who had emergency heart surgery and part of his foot amputated due to serious blood circulation problems after falling ill in Milan in January, died in a Wakefield hospital.

Born in Cwmdu near Swansea on December 27, 1931, Charles scored 147 goals for Leeds United in 200 games before moving to the Turin club in 1957 for a then British record of 65,000 pounds.

He became one of the greatest players to represent Juventus, notching 93 goals in 155 matches, and also enjoyed the rare distinction of playing an entire career without being booked or sent off.

Charles, tall, strong and quick, was equally formidable at centre-half or in midfield and was the first leading British player to make a lasting impression in Italy.

"John was without question the greatest footballer produced from Wales," said Football Association of Wales general secretary David Collins.

"His all-round ability in the air and on the ground made him equally at home as a centre-half and centre-forward. Indeed, he could play in any position.

"He was the perfect ambassador for Wales and the great game that is football."

Charles, who also played for Roma and Cardiff, won 38 caps for his country and helped Wales to the quarter-finals of the 1958 World Cup.