Kenny Jackett dead: Ex-Wolves and Millwall boss dies aged 64 as tributes pour in | Football | Sport

Kenny Jackett, the former Millwall, Wolves and Portsmouth manager, has died at the age of 64. Jackett enjoyed a wide-ranging career in management, starting out at Watford after making over 300 appearances for the Hornets as a player. He also had spells at Swansea City, Millwall, Wolves, Rotherham United, Portsmouth and Leyton Orient.

Jackett most recently worked as director of football at Gillingham before stepping down in 2024 for health reasons. He also served as Ian Holloway’s assistant manager at Queens Park Rangers, playing a pivotal role in their promotion back to the second tier of English football in 2024.

Jackett’s death was confirmed by the League Managers Association (LMA) on Friday. A statement read: “On behalf of his family, the LMA is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Kenny Jackett, who died yesterday at the age of 64.”

Richard Bevan, the organisation’s chief executive, paid a moving tribute to Jackett: “Kenny stands as one of the most respected managers to have plied their trade in the EFL.

“A hugely capable leader whose work across four decades has left a lasting influence on the many players, coaches and colleagues who benefitted from his guidance.

“He embodied everything we like to see in a manager, humility, professionalism and a deep care for his players and staff. He improved every club he served and did so with quiet dignity throughout his career.

“From his first role at Watford to his final role at Gillingham, Kenny’s work was characterised by an incredible sense of responsibility to his teams and to the game itself.

“Kenny is a huge loss to all that knew and loved him. Our thoughts are with his wife Samantha, sons David and Ryan, and all of his family and friends, who join us in mourning.”

Some of Jackett’s former clubs have also paid tribute, with Millwall posting on social media: “Millwall Football Club is extremely saddened to announce the passing of former manager Kenny Jackett at the age of 64.

“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. Rest in peace, Kenny.”

QPR added: “Our thoughts are with Kenny’s family and friends at this difficult time. May he rest in peace.”

Gillingham said: “Everyone at Gillingham Football Club is devastated to have learned of the passing of Kenny Jackett, our former director of football, at the age of 64.

“He will be very much missed by us, and the greater football community. Our thoughts and condolences are with Kenny’s family, friends and loved ones at this difficult time.”

Wolves posted: “Wolves are devastated to learn of the passing of our former manager Kenny Jackett.

“Kenny led the club to its incredible record-breaking League One title and laid the foundations for the club as we know it today. The thoughts of everyone at Wolves are with Kenny’s family and friends at this time.”

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