Wolves legend Parkes dies aged 79

Phil Parkes, the legendary goalkeeper for Wolverhampton Wanderers, passed away at the age of 79. Parkes spent an impressive 18 years with the club between 1960 and 1978, making a total of 382 appearances after joining as a schoolboy. After retiring from professional football in 1983, he continued to serve the club by joining the committee of Wolves' former players association and was inducted into the club's hall of fame in 2023.

Former teammate John Richards expressed his sadness, stating that many calls have come in from former players and friends offering their best wishes and thoughts to Phil's family. Richards highlighted that Parkes had been a part of the Wolves family for nearly seven decades and would be a significant loss. He described Parkes as a "big gentle giant" who would always have your back and protect those in need, despite his imposing appearance.

Parkes made his debut for Wolves in 1966 and played a crucial role in helping the club reach the UEFA Cup final in 1972, where they lost on aggregate to Tottenham Hotspur. After his playing career, he continued to contribute to the club by finishing his professional football life in North America, including stints with Vancouver Whitecaps and Chicago Sting.

Wolverhampton Wanderers shared a statement acknowledging Parkes' passing and offering their condolences to his loved ones. The club explained that Parkes had suffered a fall at his home in 2025, which led to him spending the remainder of his life under medical supervision. Further tributes from the club will be announced in due course.