NORTH-EAST sport is mourning the death of Steve Black at the age of 64.

Black was a hugely influential figure at Newcastle Falcons, Newcastle United and Sunderland during a wide-ranging career that saw him fill a number of roles including fitness coach, sport psychologist, motivational guru and performance director.

He is probably best known for his close relationship with England World Cup winner Jonny Wilkinson, with the former Newcastle Falcons fly-half crediting Black for helping him reach the very pinnacle of the world game.

Black had two separate spells on Newcastle Falcons’ coaching staff, with the club praising the pivotal role he played in the early days of professionalism in which Newcastle were crowned English champions.

A Newcastle Falcons statement said: “'Blackie', as he was universally known, spent two spells on the club's coaching staff - but he was so much more than that.

“The jovial Geordie was the spiritual heartbeat of the Falcons from the very early days of professionalism, helping steer Newcastle to promotion and then the Premiership title at the first attempt.

“Much more than his sporting achievements, Blackie was a friend to all of us - a proud Geordie who understood the value of people, and how to inspire them.

“Our deepest condolences go out to Blackie's family, and his many, many friends. You will never be forgotten.”

Black worked with Newcastle United in the Kevin Keegan-led ‘Entertainers’ era, famously leading training sessions with the players on Tynemouth beach. He was also part of the Magpies’ backroom staff during the 2015-16 season.

As a motivational specialist, Black worked with Huddersfield Town and Sunderland as well as the Welsh rugby union team and the British and Irish Lions.

As well as Wilkinson, Glenn McCrory, Lee Clark, Paul Bracewell, Joey Barton and Danny Cipriani all credited Black with playing an influential role in their careers.

Former Newcastle United assistant Terry McDermott said: “(I am) devastated to wake up to the news my big mate Blackie has passed away. Words can’t do justice what a top bloke he was and he will be missed very much by everyone who knew him.”

Alan Shearer tweeted, “Awful news. RIP Blackie”, while former Sunderland and Newcastle striker Michael Bridge said “So upset reading this tragic news. An amazing man who had time for everyone. (He) took me under his wing in 1994 and trained me on Tynemouth beach to get me fit for the start of my YTS contract at Sunderland.”