Stoke City academy coach John Perkins dies aged 69

Posted Monday, October 17, 2016 by stokesentinel.co.uk

Tributes have been paid to Potters' Academy senior coach John Perkins - who has died after a short illness.

The 69-year-old played a key role in developing young players for Stoke City - and had previously worked for Nottingham Forest and Wolves.

This evening Stoke City and players paid tribute to him.

In a statement Stoke City said: "Stoke City extends sincere condolences to the family and friends of John Perkins, who has passed away after a short illness.

"John, who was 69, was a senior coach in the Professional Development phase of the Potters' Academy and most recently had been assisting Under-23 coach Glyn Hodges.

"John also worked for Nottingham Forest and Wolves and played a key role in the development of a number of players who went on to enjoy successful careers in the game."

City Chief Executive Tony Scholes added: "John was a hugely popular and extremely well respected member of our coaching staff.

"He had a real affinity with young players striving to make their mark in the game and he will be greatly missed at Clayton Wood.

"The Club offers sincere condolences to his family and friends at what must be an extremely difficult time."

Players for the Potters also added their tributes to the coach.

Charlie Adam said: "Sad day today with the passing of John Perkins.thoughts are with his family and friends."

Dom Telford said: "Deeply saddened to hear the passing of John Perkins. An incredibly well respected man that helped so many players over the years, RIP."

Mark Waddington said he could not believe it.

He said: "Such a sad day to hear the passing off John Perkins. Great guy who will be missed by everyone."

Thibaud Verlinden added: "So sad to hear the passing of John Perkins. He made me feel welcome and helped me since the first day I arrived at Stoke."