League Managers Association confirms death of former EFL manager Kenny Jackett

The League Managers Association (LMA) has confirmed the death of Kenny Jackett, a former manager of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Millwall, and Watford, who has died at the age of 64. LMA chief executive Richard Bevan described Jackett as one of the most respected managers in the English Football League, praising him as a hugely capable leader who improved every club he served with quiet dignity.

Jackett’s managerial career spanned 25 years, during which he oversaw more than 750 games across the English Football League. He led Wolverhampton Wanderers, Millwall, and Swansea City to promotions, establishing a reputation for steady leadership. His tenure at Wolves, which began in 2013, saw the club secure a record-breaking League One title and transition to the Championship. Wolves stated that Jackett laid the foundations for the club as it exists today.

Millwall Football Club expressed extreme sadness at the news, noting that Jackett managed over 300 games for the club. Under his guidance, Millwall achieved promotion from League One and reached an FA Cup Semi-Final. The club highlighted his significant contribution to the team's structural and competitive development during his time in charge.

Watford, where Jackett began his playing career, described him as a true club legend. He made 428 appearances for the Hornets before transitioning into coaching and eventually management in 1996. Watford noted that he was instrumental in some of the club's greatest successes as a player and later served the organisation as a coach and manager.

Jackett also earned 31 caps for Wales during his playing days, which ended prematurely at the age of 28 due to persistent knee injuries. His final role in the game was as director of football at Gillingham, a position he held from 2022 until he stepped down in November 2024 for medical reasons. He is survived by his wife, Samantha, and sons, David and Ryan.

The English Football League (EFL) shared its condolences, acknowledging Jackett’s extensive service to the league. The EFL confirmed that he achieved promotions at the helm of Wolves, Millwall, and Swansea City, leaving a lasting influence on players and colleagues throughout his four-decade career in English football.