Former Swansea City manager John Hollins has died at the age of 76.
Hollins became a huge fan favourite with the Jack Army during a successful three-year spell between 1998-2001, which saw the club promoted as champions from the old Division Three in 2000. He also oversaw a famous FA Cup win over West Ham United in 1999, a result that made the Swans the first side from the bottom tier to knock out Premier League opposition in the history of the competition.
He left his post after the club failed to stay in Division Two, before later guiding Rochdale to the Division Three play-offs in 2002.
After a short spell as assistant boss at Raith Rovers, and a caretaker role at Stockport, he joined Crawley Town in 2005, and even applied to re-join the Swans two years later following the departure of Kenny Jackett. The Swans opted for Roberto Martinez instead, with Hollins taking up a role at non-league Weymouth before leaving in 2008.
Hollins started his managerial journey at Chelsea in 1985, having previously made more than 450 appearances for the Blues over two spells as a player. Initially a midfielder, he became an accomplished full-back, enjoying more than 150 appearances for Queens Park Rangers and 127 for Arsenal, before returning to Stamford Bridge for a second stint in 1983. Overall, he made 714 top-flight appearances, an English top-flight record for an outfield player, and a tally only bettered by legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton.
In a statement, Swansea City said: "Swansea City is saddened to learn of the passing of the club’s former manager John Hollins MBE, at the age of 76.
"John was a popular and much-loved figure, and everyone at Swansea City sends their sincerest condolences to John’s family and friends at this sad time.
"The club will mark John’s passing at a home game upon the start of the 2023-24 season."
Speaking on behalf of Chelsea's owners and directors, Lord Daniel Finkelstein said: "We were so sorry to hear of the death of John Hollins. He was a hero to the fans of this club, and very much that to me. He was at the heart of one of Chelsea's greatest teams and, as well as contributing to its trophy success, he expressed its spirit. He lifted up the team with his play and lit up the Bridge with his smile. He gave a life of service to this club, as a player, as a manager and as a match-day ambassador. He was greatly loved and will be much missed."
John's son Chris Hollins said: "John was always so modest about the role he played in Chelsea’s history. He was only 15 when he signed for the club and went on to win trophies in those incredible sides of the '60s and '70s. He had so many stories, but he always told us he just loved running out at the Bridge and wearing that famous blue shirt. We will miss him as a husband, a father and grandfather and will always be proud of what he achieved in the game."
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