Watford icon, former Wales international Kenny Jackett dies aged 64

Kenny Jackett, who played 31 games in the Wales international jersey and became a key figure in Watford history, has died aged 64.

Player Life:

• Born in Watford, Jackett made 428 one-club appearances for his hometown club. Deployed at left-back or centrally, he was part of the team that saw Watford promoted to the top flight under Graham Taylor.

• For Watford in the 1984 FA Cup final, Jackett and his team lost to Everton.

• Due to persistent knee injuries, he ended his playing career at the age of 28 (1990).

Coach Travel and Degrees:

• After retiring as coach at Vicarage Road, Jackett was appointed Watford manager in 1996 when Taylor became director of football.

• Later managed Swansea City, Millwall, Wolves, Rotherham, Portsmouth, Leyton Orient.

• achieved promotion (promotion) from fourth in the league in the 2004–05 season with Swansea; As well as winning the Football League Trophy in 2006.

• League One play-offs champion in 2010 with Millwall.

• Third-tier title in 2013–14 season with Wolves; At that time he also set a record of 103 points.

• Celebrated Checkatrade Trophy win in 2018-19 season with Portsmouth.

Last Administrative Task:

• He joined Gillingham as director of football in 2022 and stepped down in November 2024 due to health reasons.

Sympathies:

• League Managers Association (LMA) chief executive Richard Bevan said: "Kenny will be remembered as one of the most valuable managers to have worked in the EFL; his career spanning four decades has had a lasting impact on countless players, coaches and clubs." It added: "This is a loss to all who knew him. Our deepest condolences to his wife Samantha, sons David, Ryan and family."

• Watford recalled, "Our hometown boy; breathed life into the Hornets. Was a homegrown star in many of the club's biggest wins."

• Watford chairman and managing director Scott Duxbury said: "Kenny's passing is a deep loss for the club. Unremarkable achievements in all three as a player, coach and manager; the club has lost one of its own."

• Swansea City paid tribute, saying: "He will be sorely missed by all who knew him; but our club and football as a whole is bettered by his presence. He will always have a special place in the hearts of Swansea fans."

• Millwall said "Kenny Jackett will forever be remembered as one of the greatest managers in our club's history; giving Lions fans a lifetime of memories."

• Wolves said: "We are deeply saddened by the loss of our legendary former manager Kenny Jackett." He led Wolves back to the Championship at the first attempt after they were relegated to the third tier.

Born in England, Jackett qualified for Wales through his father Frank; Frank also played for Watford. LMA and former teams insisted that humility, professionalism and concern for teammates and staff were his hallmarks wherever he worked, from Watford to Gillingham.