Ex-Watford and Swans boss Jackett dies aged 64

Ex-Watford and Swans boss Jackett dies aged 64Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, Kenny Jackett led Swansea, Millwall and Wolves to promotionPublished4 minutes agoFormer Watford and Swansea City manager and Wales international Kenny Jackett has died at the age of 64.Watford-born Jackett made over 300 appearances for his hometown side during a one-club playing career that also saw him win 31 Wales caps.Forced to retire at the age of 28, following persistent knee injuries, he then began a coaching career at Watford before spells managing clubs including Swansea City, Millwall, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Portsmouth and Leyton Orient. Jackett became director of football at Gillingham in 2022, but stood down from his role for medical reasons in November 2024.League Managers Association (LMA) Chief Executive Richard Bevan said: "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 benefitted from his guidance.""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."Though born in England, Jackett - who played as a defender or midfielder - was eligible for Wales through his Welsh father Frank Jackett, who also played for Watford.When injury brought a premature end to his playing c areer in 1990 he remained at Vicarage Road and became a coach under Graham Taylor, before being appointed manager in 1996 when Taylor became director of football.He subsequently went on to spend three years in charge of Swansea City and six at Millwall before taking over at Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2013.He also managed Rotherham, Portsmouth and Leyton Orient."He embodied everything we like to see in a manager, humility, professionalism and a deep care for his players and staff,"...