Kenny Jackett dies, aged 64, as tributes pour in for iconic manager and Watford legend

Kenny Jackett has passed away aged 64.

Jackett spent his entire playing career with Watford, where he was born.

Getty Images - Getty

He first joined the Hornets as an academy player in 1974.

Jackett went on to make 428 appearances for Watford before he embarked on a lengthy managerial career.

His first role was with the Hornets, who he managed in the 1996/97 season.

Jackett later enjoyed spells with Swansea City, Wolves, Rotherham United, Portsmouth and Leyton Orient.

His most memorable managerial stint was with Millwall, whom he managed for over 306 games from November 2007 to May 2013.

In that time, Jackett helped them win promotion from League One via the play-offs in 2010 and oversaw a run to the FA Cup semi-final in the 2012/13 campaign.

Tributes flow for Jackett from former teams

Tributes poured in from his former clubs, including Watford.

Chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury said: “There is a deep and profound sense of loss at the football club following the sad news Kenny Jackett has passed away.

“Kenny holds legend status here following his remarkable achievements as a player, a coach and a manager, and the club has truly lost one of its own.

“On behalf of everyone at Watford FC, I send my sincere condolences to his wife Samantha and sons David and Ryan, the latter of whom is working with us today, building on the legacy his father left.”

In a statement, Millwall declared Jackett ‘will forever go down as one of Millwall Football Club’s greatest managers’.

More to follow…