With a career in the game that spanned over three decades, former England International Trevor Francis was regarded by many as one of the greatest English players of his era. Known for spending eight years with Birmingham City and for winning the European Cup twice with Nottingham Forest, Trevor went on to play for a further four British clubs. He also spent time with American team Detroit Express, as well as several years in Italy, with Sampdoria and Atalanta.
Trevor began his managerial career as player-manager of QPR in 1988. A move to Sheffield Wednesday followed and within a few months of joining, he once again took the role of player-manager for the 1991/92 season. He led Wednesday to a third-place finish, qualifying for European football. The following season, he guided his team to two domestic cup finals.
After four seasons at Sheffield Wednesday, Trevor took a year away from management before joining his boyhood club Birmingham City. He went on to manage almost 300 games for the club, including the League Cup final in 2001. His final managerial appointment came at Crystal Palace.
Paying tribute to Trevor, LMA Chairman Howard Wilkinson said: “My wife Sam and I have been fortunate to have Trevor, his lovely wife Helen and the boys as close friends for over 30 years.
“Trevor was a dear friend and his passing will leave a huge gap in our lives and the lives of many others. Our friendship transcended our careers in football and we had a deep connection as two families, who enjoyed spending time together.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the whole family at this very sad time.”
LMA Chief Executive Richard Bevan OBE added: "Trevor was a hugely talented and humble man, who was a long-standing member and friend of the LMA.
“His accomplishments as a player, on and off the pitch, have cemented his place in English football’s history, including his status as the first British player to command a million-pound transfer fee and that famous European Cup winning goal for Brian Clough’s Nottingham Forest team. However, he was also a very astute manager, whose ability to inspire teams ensured he had a long, and successful career in the technical area.
"Our thoughts are with Trevor’s family at this difficult time."
