Remembering Joe Kinnear: A Football Legend
Former Ireland defender and Wimbledon manager Joe Kinnear has passed away at the age of 77, as announced by his family. Kinnear, born in Dublin, had a remarkable career both as a player and a manager in the world of football.
Player Career Highlights
- Won the FA Cup, League Cup, and UEFA Cup as a player with Tottenham
- Joined Tottenham in 1963 and made his debut in 1966
- Lifted the FA Cup in 1967, UEFA Cup in 1972, and League Cup in 1971 and 1973
- Played more than 250 matches for Tottenham
Managerial Achievements
After his successful playing career, Kinnear ventured into coaching and management:
- Managed clubs such as Luton, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle
- Led Wimbledon to a sixth-placed finish in the top flight in the 1993-94 season
- Guided Wimbledon to the semi-finals of the FA Cup and League Cup in 1997
- Appointed himself as manager at Luton and secured promotion from the Third Division in 2001-02
Legacy and Tributes
Joe Kinnear’s impact on the football world was profound, as evidenced by the tributes pouring in:
- AFC Wimbledon hailed him as a “true legend of the club”
- Tottenham expressed deep sadness at the passing of their former player
- Newcastle and Luton also paid tribute to Kinnear for his contributions to the sport
Joe Kinnear’s dedication to the game and his remarkable achievements will always be remembered. Our thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.
