Tony Parkes, the stalwart of Blackburn Rovers who dedicated 34 years to the club as a player and coach, has passed away at the age of 76. Tributes have flooded in for the man affectionately known as 'Mr Blackburn Rovers'.
A Lifelong Association
Parkes began his association with Blackburn Rovers in 1970 when he joined from Buxton for a fee of £5,000. He went on to make 409 appearances for the club, scoring 46 goals, and was part of the team that won the Third Division title in 1975 and secured immediate promotion back to the second tier after relegation in 1979.
After retiring as a player in 1982, Parkes transitioned into coaching, becoming first-team coach under new manager Bobby Saxton. He served six spells as caretaker manager, the most notable of which came in the 1996-97 season when he steered the club away from relegation danger following the departure of Ray Harford.
Part of the 1995 Title-Winning Squad
Parkes was part of the backroom staff when Blackburn Rovers won the Premier League in 1995 under Kenny Dalglish. He remained with the club until 2004, when he left Ewood Park. After leaving Blackburn, he worked as a scout for Leicester City and later became assistant manager to Simon Grayson at Blackpool, where he also had a spell in caretaker charge.
Club and Players Pay Tribute
Blackburn Rovers released a statement saying: 'Blackburn Rovers are devastated to learn of the passing of Tony Parkes. A true club legend, often referred to as Mr Blackburn Rovers. Everyone at Blackburn Rovers sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to Tony's daughter Natalie and all his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.'
Members of the 1995 title-winning squad paid their respects. Alan Shearer wrote on X: 'RIP Tony. A great man.' Kevin Gallacher posted: 'Coach, boss, legend who I'm proud to call a friend.' Chris Sutton added: 'Really sad news to hear of Tony Parkes passing away. Tony was a great player and coach for Rovers with a wonderful sense of humour. He was Mr Blackburn and will be sorely missed.'
Former Blackburn manager Sir Kenny Dalglish said: 'Very sad to hear about the passing of Tony Parkes. A fantastic man who I had the privilege of working alongside at Blackburn. Loyal, dedicated and someone who gave everything to the club.'
Special Tribute Planned
Blackburn Rovers will pay a special tribute to Parkes at their final home game of the season against Leicester City on 2 May. The club has invited supporters to lay floral tributes at the Jack Walker statue at Ewood Park, where a book of condolence will also be open from Friday.
