Kenny Jackett, former Millwall and Wolves manager, dies at 64

Kenny Jackett, the former Millwall and Wolverhampton Wanderers manager, has died at the age of 64. The League Managers Association confirmed the news on Friday.

LMA chief executive Richard Bevan described Jackett as “one of the most respected managers to have plied their trade in the English Football League”. Jackett had been out of management since leaving Leyton Orient in 2022.

Over a 25-year managerial career, Jackett took charge of Watford, Swansea City, Millwall, Wolves, Rotherham United and Leyton Orient, building a reputation as one of the most dependable coaches in the lower and middle tiers of English football.

Millwall, where Jackett enjoyed some of his most memorable work, led the tributes. “Millwall Football Club is extremely saddened to announce the passing of former manager Kenny Jackett at the age of 64,” the club said in a statement. “Kenny managed over 300 games during his time with the club, leading The Lions to promotion from League One and to an FA Cup Semi-Final.”

As a player, Jackett spent the majority of his career at Watford, making over 400 appearances and winning promotion to the First Division under Graham Taylor. He later represented Queens Park Rangers and Swansea City before moving into management.

His death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the football community, reflecting the esteem in which he was held by players, coaches and administrators throughout the English game.