Welsh and Liverpool Football Legend Joey Jones Dies Aged 70

Welsh football is mourning the loss of one of its most beloved figures, Joey Jones, who has passed away at the age of 70.

The former left-back earned 72 international caps for Wales during a distinguished career that saw him feature prominently for Wrexham, Liverpool, Chelsea, and Huddersfield Town.

Jones is perhaps best remembered for his successful stint at Liverpool between 1975 and 1978, where he collected a host of major honours, including a First Division title, two European Cups, a UEFA Cup, and a European Super Cup. He made history in 1977 by becoming the first Welsh player to win the European Cup, following Liverpool’s 3-1 triumph over Borussia Monchengladbach in Rome.

His larger-than-life persona and passion for the game endeared him to supporters, who famously created a 24-foot banner in his honour that read: “Joey ate the frogs legs, made the Swiss roll, now he’s munching Gladbach.”

Born in Llandudno, Jones began his professional career with Wrexham and went on to have three separate spells with the club. He lifted the Welsh Cup during his first stint and later returned in 1978 as the club’s record signing – a status that stood until 2022 when Ollie Palmer arrived at the Racecourse Ground. He also helped Chelsea clinch the Second Division title in the 1983–84 season.

Jones ended his playing days in 1992 at the age of 37 and remains tied with Mark Hughes as Wales’ joint-15th most capped male player.

Tributes have poured in from across the football world. Wrexham AFC expressed deep sorrow at his passing, revealing plans to erect a statue of Jones outside the new Kop Stand at the Stok Cae Ras in his honour.

Close friend and former teammate Mickey Thomas posted a heartfelt message: “This morning I lost my best friend and soulmate, Sir Joey. Our memories will never fade. Today my heart is broken.”

The Football Association of Wales described Jones as one of the nation’s finest defenders, lauding his work ethic and connection with the fans. “His humble nature, commitment, and sheer love for the game made him a hero not just to the clubs he represented, but to the supporters who saw themselves in him,” the FAW said in a statement.

Former Liverpool striker John Aldridge added: “He was a true gentleman and a fearless full-back who gave everything on the pitch. I feel fortunate to have known him.”

Dixie McNeil, who both played with and managed Jones at Wrexham, described him as the ultimate team player: “You never got anything less than 110 percent from Joey. He was the kind of professional every manager wants in their squad.”

Hollywood owners of Wrexham, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, also paid tribute. Reynolds reflected: “I’m really glad I got to spend time with you. Thanks for the stories. Rest up, Joey. Big second half coming up.” McElhenney added: “Sir Joey is a legend that will never be forgotten. Love to you, Mickey Thomas, and the entire Jones family.”

Former Wales goalkeeper Neville Southall summed up the nation’s loss, posting: “A Welsh legend and a good friend. God obviously needs a left-back. He’s got a great one now.”