Britain's first £1m football player Trevor Francis dies
The ex-Nottingham Forest striker has died at 69-years-old
Last updated 24th Jul 2023
Trevor Francis, British football’s first £1million player, has died at the age of 69.
The ex-striker, who scored Nottingham Forest’s winner in their 1979 European Cup final triumph, died in Spain from a heart attack, a spokesman for the family has confirmed.
He started his career at Birmingham City when he was just 16-year-old. He represented the blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133 goals.
Francis then signed for Nottingham Forest under Brian Clough, breaking the £1 million record.
He then later guided Sheffield Wednesday and Birmingham to major finals as a manager.
Football fans and players have been paying tribute to him on social media, including Gary Lineker who wrote: "Deeply saddened to hear that Trevor Francis has died.
"A wonderful footballer and lovely man. Was a pleasure to work alongside him both on the pitch and on the telly. RIP Trevor."
Nottingham Forest Tweeted: "Nottingham Forest is deeply saddened to learn the passing of two-time European Cup winner, Trevor Francis.
A true Forest legend who will never be forgotten."
Birmingham City Football club posted this statement:
"Blues is deeply saddened and shocked to learn of the passing of Club legend Trevor Francis, at the age of 69 on Monday 24 July 2023.
"Trevor will forever be revered as a giant of the Club, the player everyone wanted to see. He represented Blues on 330 occasions, scoring 133 goals.
"Blues sends its thoughts and deepest sympathies to Trevor’s family and friends."
He played for England 52 times and represented his country at the 1982 World Cup.