On this day: Former Watford player and football 'pioneer' passes away
On this day in 2021, the Watford Observer reported the death of former Watford player Tony Collins, the first black manager in the English Football League, who had passed away at the age of 94.
The League Managers’ Association (LMA) announced his death that afternoon.
Collins, who made 90 appearances for Watford between 1950 and 1953, also had a notable playing career with clubs including Sheffield Wednesday, York, Norwich, Torquay, Crystal Palace, and Rochdale, where he was appointed manager in 1960.
During his seven-year tenure, he led Rochdale to the League Cup final in 1962, marking the only major final in the club’s history.
He also returned for a second spell at Watford in 1957.
LMA chairman Howard Wilkinson said: "Tony was a true pioneer of the sport.
"He should be remembered and revered for his achievements on and off the pitch."
[From the Watford Observer of February 8, 2021]
