PREMIERSHIP player Tony Anderson has passed away, aged 78.

A member of the 1964 premiership team, Anderson played 75 games for Melbourne and was an important part of its defence throughout the 1960s period.

The half-back flanker made his debut in Round 4, 1963 against Fitzroy at the MCG, going on to play 14 games in his first season.

He continued to impress the following year, where he was selected to represent Victoria, before playing in the Demons’ grand final victory – he did so, despite a persistent knee injury.

Wearing the number 11 guernsey, Anderson’s career spanned seven years and concluded just three games into the 1969 season.

Following his retirement, Anderson moved into the building and property development industry.

The Melbourne Football Club extends its deepest sympathies to the Anderson family, teammates and colleagues at this very sad time.