Former Welsh football star Joey Jones, who was most notably associated with Liverpool, Wrexham, and the national team, has passed away at the age of 70. His death was a significant moment in the world of football, especially for those who admired the legacy he left behind. Jones died after battling an illness, leaving behind a revered status among fans, teammates, and clubs he represented throughout his accomplished career.
**Career Highlights and Achievements**
Joey Jones was a left-back who earned a towering number of 72 caps for the Welsh national team between 1975 and 1986. His football journey was marked by pivotal stints at various clubs, with a particularly stellar three-year spell at Liverpool. During his time with the Reds, he contributed immensely to the team’s successes, including winning a First Division title, two European Cups, a UEFA Cup, and a European Super Cup. One of the highlights of his career was participating in the European Cup final against Borussia Monchengladbach in Rome in 1977, where he became the first Welshman to lift the coveted trophy.
The fond memories of this triumph were immortalized with a humorous fan-crafted banner that read, “Joey ate the frogs legs, made the Swiss roll, now he’s munching Gladbach,” highlighting both the celebratory and affectionate nature of his impact on Liverpool fans. In addition to his illustrious tenure at Liverpool, Jones also had notable spells with Wrexham, Chelsea, and Huddersfield Town, showcasing his enduring versatility and commitment to the sport.
**Wrexham and Lasting Legacy**
Joey Jones’s first spell with Wrexham saw him help the club lift the Welsh Cup, solidifying his bond with the team. His return to Wrexham in 1978 made him their record signing, a distinction he held until 2022, reflecting his significant place in the club’s history. He was integral to Chelsea’s success, particularly in their Second Division title win during the 1983-84 season. Even after hanging up his boots in 1992 at the age of 37, Jones remained a respected figure within football, which was exemplified by a heartfelt tribute planned by Wrexham AFC, who announced a statue to honor him in the public plaza outside the Stok Cae Ras.
**Tributes Pour In**
Following the news of his passing, tributes began to pour in from across the football community. Mickey Thomas, a close friend and former teammate, expressed his sorrow on social media platform X, sharing a poignant message of loss and remembrance. Likewise, John Aldridge, a former Liverpool striker, praised Jones as a lovely man and an inspirational player who devoted himself wholeheartedly to each club he played for, emphasizing the profound connections he made throughout his life.
Noel Mooney, the chief executive of the Football Association of Wales (FAW), also acknowledged the enormous impact Jones had on Welsh football, expressing the collective grief felt within the community. In an official statement, the FAW conveyed their condolences, highlighting how deeply loved Jones was among fans and peers alike.
**Conclusion**
Joey Jones will be remembered not only for his exceptional skills on the pitch but also for his charismatic personality and the friendships he forged during his lifetime. With a legacy that transcends generations, his contributions to Welsh football and the clubs he represented will be celebrated for years to come. Fans will forever cherish his memory, and his story will continue to inspire young athletes aspiring to make their mark in the world of football. As tributes continue to emerge, it is clear that Jones’s spirit will live on, reflecting the love and admiration he garnered throughout his storied career.
