Watford legend and ex-Wales international Jackett dies

Watford Legend and Former Wales International Kenny Jackett Passes Away at 64

Watford legend and ex Wales international - Kenny Jackett, a revered figure in English football, has died at the age of 64. Born in Watford, the late manager and player spent his entire playing career with his hometown club, earning 428 appearances and 31 caps for Wales. His career was cut short at 28 due to recurring knee injuries, but this marked the beginning of a long and influential coaching journey.

Jackett’s managerial career saw him lead Swansea City, Millwall, Wolves, Rotherham, Portsmouth, and Leyton Orient to promotion and success. Notably, he guided Swansea from the fourth tier to the top flight in the 2004-05 season, their final campaign at Vetch Field. He also orchestrated a Football League Trophy victory in 2006 and secured the League One play-offs with Millwall in 2010. At Wolves, he claimed the third-tier title with a record 103 points, while leading Portsmouth to the Checkatrade Trophy in 2018-19.

Early Career and Transition to Coaching

Though born in England, Jackett was eligible to represent Wales through his father, Frank, who also played for Watford. After his playing days ended prematurely in 1990, he remained at Vicarage Road, transitioning into coaching. By 1996, he had taken the managerial role at Watford following Graham Taylor’s move to a director position.

Jackett’s playing days included a memorable FA Cup final appearance with Watford in 1984, where the Hornets fell to Everton. His legacy as a local talent is highlighted by Watford’s tribute: “a homegrown star who played an instrumental part in some of our greatest successes.”

"Kenny stands as one of the most respected managers to have plied their trade in the EFL, a hugely capable leader whose work across four decades has left a lasting influence on the many players, coaches and colleagues who benefited from his guidance." — Richard Bevan, League Managers Association chief executive

"Kenny is a huge loss to all that knew and loved him. Our thoughts are with his wife Samantha, sons David and Ryan, and all of his family and friends, who join us in mourning." — Richard Bevan

Swansea City remembered Jackett as “a man who gave Lions fans moments to remember for life,” while Millwall hailed him as “one of the club’s greatest managers.” Wolves expressed deep sadness, calling him an “iconic former manager.”

Throughout his career, Jackett was celebrated for his humility, professionalism, and dedication to his teams. His final role as director of football at Gillingham came in 2022, but he stepped down in November 2024 due to medical reasons. “He improved every club he served and did so with quiet dignity,” Bevan noted. “From his first role at Watford to his final role at Gillingham, Kenny's work was characterised by an incredible sense of responsibility to his teams and to the game itself.”