Wolverhampton Wanderers legend Phil Parkes passes away at 79

Phil Parkes, the long-serving Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper, died at the age of 79 after suffering a fall at home in 2025 that required ongoing medical care. He joined Wolves as a schoolboy, debuted in 1966, and accumulated 382 first-team matches over an 18-year spell, including a UEFA Cup final appearance in 1972. Following his playing career, which concluded in North America with stints at Vancouver Whitecaps and Chicago Sting, he served on the Wolves former-players association and was inducted into the club’s Hall of Fame in 2023.

Former teammate John Richards recalled Parkes as a “big gentle giant” who was always ready to help others. The club issued a statement expressing condolences and promising further tributes.