Ex-Chelsea and Arsenal star John Hollins dies, 76, as son Chris pays tribute

14 June 2023 , 12:03

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John Hollins has died at the age of 76 (Image: Mirrorpix)

Former Chelsea and Arsenal star John Hollins has died at the age of 76.

Hollins represented the Blues twice during a 26-year career in which he also made more than 100 appearances for both Arsenal and Queens Park Rangers.

The midfielder, who later played as a full-back, made a single appearance for the England national team, before going on to manage Chelsea for three years as well as a number of other lower-league teams across Britain.

John's son, BBC star and Strictly Come Dancing winner, Chris Hollins, said: "John was always so modest about the role he played in Chelsea's history.

He was only 15 when he signed for the club and went on to win trophies in those incredible sides of the '60s and '70s.

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"He had so many stories, but he always told us he just loved running out at the Bridge and wearing that famous blue shirt.

"We will miss him as a husband, a father and grandfather and will always be proud of what he achieved in the game."

Lord Daniel Finkelstein paid tribute on the Chelsea website.

He said: "We were so sorry to hear of the death of John Hollins. He was a hero to the fans of this club, and very much that to me.

John's son Chris Hollins won Strictly Come Dancing in 2009 (PA)

"He was at the heart of one of Chelsea's greatest teams and, as well as contributing to its trophy success, he expressed its spirit.

"He lifted up the team with his play and lit up the Bridge with his smile.

"He gave a life of service to this club, as a player, as a manager and as a match-day ambassador. He was greatly loved and will be much missed."

Arsenal paid their own tribute, writing: "We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of John Hollins. Our Player of the Year in 1981/82, John was also a European Cup Winners' Cup finalist in 1980 and was awarded an MBE in 1982. John scored 13 times in 173 games with us. Rest in peace."

Jake Polden