Former Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Phil Parkes has died at the age of 79. Parkes was a long-standing figure at the club, joining as a schoolboy and making 382 appearances between 1960 and 1978.
Parkes made his first-team debut in 1966 and was part of the Wolves squad that reached the UEFA Cup final in 1972, where they were defeated on aggregate by Tottenham Hotspur.
After concluding his playing career in 1983, Parkes remained involved with the club. He served on the committee of Wolves' former players association and was recognized with induction into the club's hall of fame in 2023.
"It's a sad day, I've had so many calls this morning from former players and friends of Phil just passing on their best wishes and thoughts and prayers to the family," former teammate John Richards told BBC Radio WM. "You've got to bear in mind Phil has been part of the Wolves family for the best part of 70 years. He's going to be a big loss."
Richards described Parkes as a protective figure, saying, "He was one of the people who would have your back. He looked frightening but he was the opposite. He was a big gentle giant until one of his friends was in trouble and then he was there to protect everybody." Parkes was known as "Lofty" or "the big man" and was remembered for having "a big heart."
Following his departure from Wolves, Parkes continued his playing career in North America, with stints at Vancouver Whitecaps and Chicago Sting.
Wolves stated that Parkes had suffered a fall at home in 2025, which led to him requiring ongoing medical supervision. "The thoughts and prayers are with Lofty's loved ones at this sad time. Details on further club tributes will follow," the club said in a statement.