Kenny Jackett, who managed Wolves, Millwall and Swansea, has died at the age of 64, with many of his former clubs paying tribute.
Former Millwall and Wolves manager Kenny Jackett has sadly passed away at the age of 64.
The news was confirmed by the Jackets’ former club on Friday. He has been in management for almost 30 years and has managed over 900 games for various clubs. Jackett took up his first managerial job at his hometown club Watford in 1996, after his playing career ended prematurely at the age of 28 due to injury.
He went on to manage both Swansea and Millwall, winning promotion with both clubs. He achieved a similar feat with Wolves in 2013, leading the club to promotion from League One at their first attempt. He guided Millwall and Wolves to promotion from the third tier before turning them into competitive Championship outfits. He also led the Lions to the FA Cup semi-finals.
Jackt would later go on to manage Rotherham, Portsmouth and Rayon Orient, but his spell at Brisbane Road was his last. During his time at Fratton Park, he reached the EFL Trophy final twice, winning in 2019 and finishing second in 2020. His most recent role in football was as Gillingham’s director of football in January 2023, but he stepped down from that role in November of the following year due to health reasons.
Kenny Jackett dies at age 64
Millwall Manager released a statement paying tribute to Jackett, saying: “Millwall Football Club is deeply saddened to announce that former manager Kenny Jackett has passed away at the age of 64. Kenny managed over 300 games during his time at the club, leading the Lions to promotion from League One and a place in the FA Cup semi-finals. Rest in Peace Kenny.”
Wolves also paid their respects, saying: “Wolves are shocked to learn of the passing of former manager Kenny Jackett. Kenny led the club to an incredible record-breaking League One title and laid the foundations for what the club is today. The thoughts of everyone at Wolves are with Kenny’s family and friends at this time.”
Kenny Jackett earned several promotions during his time in the dugout (Image: GETTY)
LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan said: “Kenny is one of the most respected EFL managers and a highly effective leader whose work spanning four decades has left a lasting impact on the many players, coaches and colleagues who have benefited from his guidance.”
“He embodied everything we look for in a manager: humility, professionalism and deep concern for players and staff. He improved every club he served for and did so with quiet dignity throughout his career, from his first role at Watford to his last at Gillingham. Kenny’s work was marked by an incredible commitment to the team and the game itself. He will be a great loss to all who knew and loved him. Our thoughts are with his wife Samantha, son David and his sons. “Ryan and all of his family and friends join us in mourning. ”
