The LMA is deeply saddened by the passing of LMA Member Craig Shakespeare, who has died at the age of 60.
Craig was a hugely talented coach, who worked his way up the English football pyramid to coach and manage at the highest level of the game.
His coaching career began at West Brom, a club he had played for previously. After nine years at West Brom in various roles in the academy and reserves, working closely with Assistant Manager Nigel Pearson, Craig left to join Nigel at Leicester City where they would become a formidable coaching team in the EFL and Premier League.
As part of the famous Leicester City coaching team, Craig played an important role in the club's ascent from League One to the Champions League, over his first two spells at the club. Notably, Craig was Leicester City’s Assistant Manager for two promotions, a remarkable escape from relegation and the famous Premier League title-winning season, alongside Claudio Ranieri. He was also England's First-Team Coach with Sam Allardyce during this period.
Following Ranieri's departure, Shakespeare led the club as Caretaker Manager on an excellent run of results, including victory over Sevilla to reach the Champions League Quarter Final against Atletico Madrid. He was rewarded later that summer with his first permanent Managerial appointment for the 2017/18 season.
Following his departure from Leicester City, Craig continued to operate at the highest level as Assistant Manager at Everton, with Sam Allardyce, and Watford. In the latter stages of his career, he reunited with former Walsall teammate and close friend Dean Smith at Aston Villa, Norwich City and his third and final appointment at Leicester City.
Paying tribute LMA Chairman Martin O'Neill OBE said: “Craig’s impact on the people he worked with was often spoken about by players, coaches and managers in the game. Not only because his knowledge of football and coaching was so strong, but also because his personality and warmth made people feel important and that Craig truly cared about their development and success.
“The role he played in the success of his teams should be celebrated, especially at Leicester City, who rightfully see Craig as a club stalwart who played a significant part of that unbelievable Premier League winning season and many other wonderful times throughout his three spells at the club.
“My thoughts and prayers are with Craig’s family and loved ones at this awfully sad time.”
LMA Member Nigel Pearson said: “It's difficult to put into words how I and indeed everyone who came across or worked with Craig will feel on hearing such devastating news.
“He is without hesitation one of the most wonderfully talented, emotionally understanding, calm, balanced and outrageously funny people I've had the privilege of calling my friend. Safe journey to the next destination my wonderful friend. You are loved and admired by us all, and every time we think of you, a smile, smirk, chuckle or memorable occasion will come to us. We truly are the lucky ones for having known Shakey.”
LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan OBE added: "Craig was loved by so many of his peers and colleagues in the LMA. Behind the talented and passionate coach, was a thoughtful and generous man. He was always happy to be supportive and share his experiences to benefit others.
"Throughout his time as an LMA member his presence was always felt and he will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with his wife Karen and his children Jed and Elle at this incredibly difficult time."
