Former Cobblers assistant manager Andy King dies, aged 58

Former Cobblers assistant boss Andy King has died at the age of 58.
Andy KingAndy King
Andy King

King, who was number two to Aidy Boothroyd at Sixfields and was briefly caretaker manager before the appointment of Chris Wilder in January, 2014, suffered a heart attack on Wednesday morning.

After leaving the Cobblers, he took up a scouting role with MK Dons.

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A statement released by MK Dons read: “Milton Keynes Dons Football Club are devastated to learn that chief scout Andy King has suddenly passed away at the age of 58.

“He passed away after a heart attack at his home on Wednesday.

“King, who joined the Dons’ backroom staff in 2014, was a hugely respected figure throughout football and a magnificent individual and friend to many at MK Dons - he will be missed greatly.

“The thoughts of everyone at MK Dons are with Andy’s wife Barbara, his family and his friends at this extremely sad and difficult time.”

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Northampton Town issued a brief statement on Twitter, saying: “We are deeply saddened to hear the news that our former assistant manager Andy King has passed away, our thoughts are with his family.”

Everton FC also released a statement, saying: “Everton Football Club is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our former midfielder Andy King.

“King, who scored 67 goals in 248 appearances over two spells at Goodison Park, was a crowd favourite and will forever be remembered for netting a spectacular Merseyside derby winner in October 1978.

“The thoughts of everyone at Everton are with Andy’s family and many friends at this sad time.”

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As a player, King played for a string of clubs, including hometown outfit Luton, Everton, Queens Park Rangers, West Bromwich Albion, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aldershot.

He was best known for his spell with the Toffees, and in particular a spectacular match-winning strike against Liverpool at Goodison Park in 1978.

After his retirement as a player, King moved into coaching and managed Mansfield Town, Swindon Town and Grays Athletic, before being brought to Northampton by Boothroyd in 2011.

Following the dismissal of Boothroyd in December, 2013, King took charge of five Cobblers games on a temporary basis, and left the club when Wilder was appointed.