Tony’s Rovers story started in 1970, when he was plucked from non-league Buxton Town for a trial.
A striker turned midfielder, he grew to become a relentless presence – a part of the 1974–75 promotion facet beneath Gordon Lee, and once more influential within the crew that rose again to the second tier beneath Howard Kendall in 1980. A damaged leg in 1981 ended his taking part in days however opened the door to a outstanding teaching profession.
He took cost of Rovers six instances. Three instances he got here shut to being appointed completely.
In 1986, after Bobby Saxton’s departure, he was a powerful contender earlier than Don Mackay received the job. In 1991, after Jack Walker took management, Tony steadied the ship with 5 wins, two attracts, and only one defeat – a run that helped pave the way in which to Wembley and the 1992 play-off last, a second he cherished for the remainder of his life.
Again in 1999, after relegation and Brian Kidd’s departure, Tony stepped in, calmed the waters, and ready the bottom for Graeme Souness.
Through all of the big-name arrivals and departures, Tony remained. Jack Walker trusted him implicitly. When issues received robust, the reply was easy: ship for Tony.
As a caretaker, he believed in change. “Why carry on what the previous manager was doing if he’d just been sacked?” he’d say.
He backed youth, gave gamers freedom, and handled everybody the identical – whether or not they value 5 million or 5 thousand. Mark Atkins moved from right-back to central midfield beneath Tony. Jason Wilcox received his likelihood. The late Len Johnrose was given a possibility. Tony noticed potential the place others noticed threat.
Away from soccer, Tony’s world revolved round household. He most popular a quiet evening at residence along with his late spouse Eileen and his daughter Natalie to any highlight or ceremony. Even persuading him to attend the North West Football Awards – the place he was stunned with a lifetime achievement award – took some convincing.
After a spell at Blackpool and his retirement, Tony’s well being started to decline. He was identified with Alzheimer’s illness, a merciless distinction to the health he’d maintained all his life.
I’ll always remember sitting with Tony and Natalie as they ready to share his prognosis publicly. I’ll at all times be grateful they trusted me with one thing so deeply private.
Though dialog grew to become tough for him, his love for soccer by no means pale. He nonetheless got here to Ewood Park, nonetheless felt at residence there, nonetheless discovered moments of that dry humour and people one-liners that made him who he was.
Reading the tributes over the past 24 hours, it is clear Tony Parkes meant a lot to so many. My sincerest condolences go to his household – the individuals he cherished above all else.
Thanks for the recollections, Tony. And thanks for the friendship.
