Joey Jones, the distinguished former defender who once donned the jerseys of Liverpool, Chelsea, and other clubs, has sadly passed away at the age of 70 following an illness.
Glorious Years at Anfield
Born on March 4, 1955, in Bangor, North Wales, Joey Jones played as a left-back. At just 20 years old, he transferred from Wrexham to Liverpool in 1975, becoming a key piece under legendary manager Bob Paisley.
During his time with the Reds, he won multiple honors, including the English First Division, two European Cups, the UEFA Cup, and the UEFA Super Cup. He also reached the milestone of 100 appearances for Liverpool, leaving behind a legacy remembered to this day.
The 1976–77 season marked the pinnacle of his playing career. Jones made 59 appearances that season and played in 39 of the 42 league matches, helping Liverpool retain the league title.
Most notably, he started as left-back in the European Cup final against Borussia Mönchengladbach, playing a crucial role in Liverpool’s 3-1 victory, their first-ever European Cup triumph.
A Fan Favourite and Symbol of Grit
Jones’ relentless playing style and fierce commitment earned him the admiration of Liverpool fans. Every movement on the pitch reflected his hunger for victory and undying loyalty to the team.
During Liverpool’s European Cup run in 1977, the Reds defeated French side Saint-Étienne and Swiss club FC Zurich before facing German giants Mönchengladbach in the final.
Fans famously created a banner that read, “Joey eats frog’s legs, crushes Swiss rolls, and now he’s munching on German sausage.” This humorous and passionate slogan became an iconic part of Anfield folklore, showcasing Jones’ unwavering defending skills and his status as a cult hero.
Although Liverpool narrowly lost the 1977 FA Cup Final to Manchester United, missing out on a historic treble, Jones’ contribution to that legendary season remains an indelible part of club history.
Return to Wrexham
In early 1978, with changes to Liverpool’s squad, Jones returned to his boyhood club, Wrexham, embarking on another meaningful chapter of his career. In 1982, he moved again, this time to Chelsea, where he helped the Blues secure the Second Division title in the 1983–84 season, earning promotion to the top flight.
Jones would go on to play for Huddersfield Town before retiring from professional football and returning to Wrexham. Throughout his career, he not only collected major trophies but also brought invaluable experience and leadership to every club he served.
Life After Retirement: Mentoring the Next Generation
Jones officially retired in 1992 and stayed on at Wrexham as a coach, dedicating himself to developing youth and reserve players. He remained in the role as a coach for over two decades, retiring in 2017.
In 2025, after a long battle with illness, Joey Jones passed away at the age of 70. His death triggered an outpouring of tributes from around the world of football. Liverpool, Chelsea, Wrexham, and fans alike all honoured his legacy, with Wrexham announcing plans to erect a statue in his memory.
Liverpool Football Club said in an official statement: “Joey’s attitude and commitment won the hearts of Liverpool fans long ago. At this sad time, everyone at the club stands with his family and friends.”
Joey Jones, forever remembered as the iron-hearted left-back of Anfield, a symbol of Liverpool’s fighting spirit, and a true legend of Welsh football. Rest in peace.
