Former Blackburn Rovers player and coach Tony Parkes has died at the age of 76.
Widely regarded as “Mr Blackburn Rovers,” Parkes dedicated over three decades of his life to the club, serving as both a player and coach.
He made more than 400 appearances as a midfielder after joining from Buxton in 1970, playing a key role in the club’s third-tier title triumph in the 1974–75 season.
Following his retirement in 1982, Parkes transitioned into coaching, where he worked under 16 different managers. Notably, he was part of the backroom staff during the club’s historic 1994 95 Premier League season, when Blackburn were crowned English champions under Kenny Dalglish.
Parkes also served as caretaker manager on six separate occasions, including a crucial spell in the 1996–97 season where he helped steer the club away from relegation.
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In 2020, he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. His daughter confirmed that he passed away on Wednesday.
After leaving Blackburn in 2004, Parkes continued his football career in scouting and coaching roles, including spells with Leicester City and Blackpool, where he finished his career fittingly as caretaker manager.
Blackburn Rovers announced plans to honour Parkes with a special tribute ahead of their final Championship home game of the season.
Former Blackburn striker Alan Shearer paid tribute, describing him as “a great man.”
