Joey Jones, the iconic Welsh defender who left an indelible mark on both Liverpool and Wrexham, has passed away at the age of 70. The former left-back, born in Llandudno, earned 72 international caps for Wales and died on July 22.
Jones’s football journey, spanning over two decades, was defined by his fierce determination, magnetic presence, and deep love for the game.
He enjoyed his peak years at Liverpool between 1975 and 1978, where he won an impressive collection of silverware including two European Cups, a UEFA Cup, a European Super Cup, and a First Division title.A highlight of his career was his role in Liverpool’s 3-1 victory over Borussia Mönchengladbach in the 1977 European Cup final in Rome, a win that made him the first Welshman to lift the prestigious trophy.
That legendary moment inspired a famous Anfield banner: “Joey ate the frog’s legs, made the Swiss roll, now he’s munching Gladbach.”Jones also had three stints at Wrexham, where he initially won the Welsh Cup and returned in 1978 as the club’s record signing—a title he held until Ollie Palmer’s arrival in 2022.
His career also saw spells with Chelsea—where he helped secure the Second Division title in 1983–84—and Huddersfield Town. He retired in 1992 at the age of 37.Wrexham AFC, where he is revered as a club legend, expressed profound sorrow and announced plans to honour him with a statue outside the new Kop Stand at the Stok Cae Ras stadium.
Liverpool FC paid tribute in a statement:
“Liverpool FC is deeply saddened by the passing of Joey Jones, aged 70. A league, European Cup, and UEFA Cup winner, Joey made 100 appearances for the club in the late 1970s. Signed from Wrexham by Bob Paisley at the age of 20, he left a lasting legacy at Anfield.”
Chelsea FC also offered condolences:
“It is with great sadness that Chelsea Football Club has learned of the passing of our former player, Joey Jones, at the age of 70. All at Chelsea send our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.”
