On Wednesday, Chelsea Football Club announced the passing of John Hollins, a former player and manager, at the age of 76.
Hollins began his professional career with Chelsea in 1963 and showcased his talents on the field, accumulating an impressive total of 592 appearances for the London-based team.
Throughout his two stints at Stamford Bridge, he demonstrated his prowess and contributed 64 goals to the club’s success.
During his initial tenure, which concluded in 1975, Hollins achieved significant triumphs, including securing the FA Cup, European Cup Winners’ Cup, and League Cup for Chelsea. His contributions as a player during this period were widely celebrated.
“He was a hero to the fans of this club, and he is very much that to me,” said Chelsea board member Daniel Finkelstein.
“He was at the heart of one of Chelsea’s greatest teams, and, as well as contributing to its trophy success, he expressed its spirit.”
Hollins, fifth on the all-time Chelsea appearances list, also played for QPR and Arsenal before returning to Stamford Bridge in 1983 for a final stint as a player.
He played once for England, in 1967.
He was Chelsea’s boss from 1985 to 1988 and later had coaching stints at Swansea, Rochdale, and Stockport.
On behalf of his family, Hollins’s son, Chris Hollins, said: “John was always so modest about the role he played in Chelsea’s history”.
“He was only 15 when he signed for the club and went on to win trophies in those incredible sides of the 60s and 70s.
“He had so many stories, but he always told us he just loved running out at the Bridge and wearing that famous blue shirt. We will miss him as a husband, a father, and grandfather and will always be proud of what he achieved in the game.”
