Former Watford and Swansea manager Kenny Jackett passes away at 64

Kenny Jackett, former manager of Watford, Swansea, Millwall, and Wolves, has died at the age of 64.

Early career and playing days Kenny Jackett, born in Watford, made more than 300 appearances for his local club, playing only for Watford throughout his entire career. He earned 31 caps representing Wales during his time as a player. A left-sided defender or midfielder, Jackett was part of the Watford squad that won promotion to the top tier under Graham Taylor's management. He also featured in the 1984 FA Cup final for Watford, where they were defeated by Everton. ## Injury ends playing career early Persistent knee injuries forced Jackett to retire at the age of 28, bringing an end to his playing days. Despite retiring from playing, he remained connected to Watford and transitioned into coaching under Graham Taylor. He later took on his first managerial role at Watford in 1996 after Taylor became director of football. ## Coaching and management roles After leaving Watford, Jackett managed several clubs including Rotherham United, Portsmouth, and Leyton Orient. He also spent time as a director of football at Gillingham, a position he left in November 2024 for health reasons. His coaching career spanned over four decades and included roles at multiple clubs across different tiers of English football. ## Notable achievements as manager Jackett led Swansea City to promotion from the fourth tier during the 2004-05 season, marking the club's final year at their former Vetch Field stadium. He also guided Swansea to victory in the Football League Trophy in 2006. At Millwall, he secured promotion via the League One play-offs in 2010, and later won the third-tier title with Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2014. Additionally, he claimed the Checkatrade Trophy with Portsmouth in the 2018-19 campaign. ## Welsh football connection Though born in England, Jackett was eligible to represent Wales due to his father Frank, who also played for Watford. His father's heritage allowed Jackett to earn caps for the Welsh national team during his playing career. This family link played a significant role in his lifelong association with Welsh football. ## Tributes paid to Jackett Richard Bevan, Chief Executive of the League Managers Association, described Jackett as one of the most respected managers in the English Football League. Bevan highlighted Jackett's lasting impact on players, coaches, and colleagues who benefited from his leadership across four decades. He emphasized Jackett's humility, professionalism, and deep care for his teams. ## Reflections on his legacy Bevan noted that Jackett improved every club he managed, doing so with quiet dignity throughout his career. From his start at Watford to his final role at Gillingham, Jackett's work was defined by an unwavering sense of responsibility to his teams and the game itself. His contributions left a lasting influence on the many people he worked with. ## Personal loss and family Richard Bevan expressed that Jackett's passing is a significant loss to all who knew and loved him. He offered condolences to Jackett's wife Samantha, sons David and Ryan, and all of his family and friends who are mourning his death. The football community joins in extending their thoughts and sympathies during this difficult time.